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By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information
St. Louis, Mo. — The No. 3 University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women’s volleyball team swept No. 15 Gustavus Adolphus College 3-0 (25-12, 25-15, 26-24) at the Bear Invite hosted by Washington University in St. Louis Saturday. The Warhawks are now 12-1 on the season.
UWW rolled through the first two sets hammering down 13 and 17 kills respectively. Meanwhile the defense held the Gusties to a negative attack percentage in the first set and limited GAC to 10 kills in set two. UW-Whitewater mounted a comeback late in the third to secure the match.
After UW-Whitewater dominated the first two sets, GAC came back to grab and hold the lead for the majority of set three. The Gusties led by five, 21-16, when an attack error made it 21-17. GAC responded with back-to-back points to push the gap to 23-17. Following a Payton Kuepers kill, the Gusties forced set point with a kill of their own to make it 24-18.
From there, the Warhawks rattled off the next eight points to take the match. An Abbie Dix kill gave UWW the serve as Ally Longden headed back to the service line. A pair of GAC miscues pulled UWW to within three. Longden registered an ace and Aubrie Krzus and Dix cut the margin to one, 24-23, with a block. Jenna Weinfurt capped the match with three consecutive kills to seal the victory.
Weinfurt was the only player to tally double digit kills with 16. She added a solo and five assist blocks and seven digs in the contest.
Krzus dished out 31 assists adding five kills in six attempts and a pair of aces on the day.
Defensively, Dix posted five assist blocks while fellow middle Hannah Proctor registered a solo and three assisted. Jaedynn Evans led all players with 26 digs.
UW-Whitewater continues their tough stretch against ranked opponents next weekend at the Transylvania Invitational. The Warhawks will take on No. 4 Hope College and #24 Transylvania in a pair of matches in Kentucky.
By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information
The No. 3 University of Wisconsin-Whitewater football team suffered its first loss of the 2024 campaign Saturday at Perkins Stadium. Despite stellar special teams play, the Warhawks fell to [unranked] Mary Hardin-Baylor 35-17.
Defense and special teams dominated Saturday at the Perk with more scoring coming from those two facets of the game than from either offense.
The first two scores of the game went to the Crusaders courtesy of pick-6s. The first came on UW-Whitewater’s first drive of the game as Durand Hill jumped a passing lane at the Warhawks’ 18 and went the distance. UWW’s second drive ended with a 32-yard interception return for touchdown.
Following a three-and-out for the Warhawks, the UWW defense stepped up with a big play causing a turnover. On the third play of UMHB’s next drive, Bryson Clarson forced a fumble from the Cru’s quarterback and Luke Hagedorn jumped on the loose ball to bring the Warhawk offense back onto the field at the UMHB 30. Despite the good field position, a Warhawk miscue led to another fumble that was recovered by the Crusaders at their own 20. That turnover led to an offensive score on a 30-yard touchdown pass and an early 21-0 UMHB lead.
The second quarter featured scores from both squads and more turnovers. Deven Magli intercepted a UMHB pass on third-and-six at the Warhawks’ 35 early in the quarter. The next big play would come from UW-Whitewater’s special teams unit. After forcing a punt on fourth-and-14 at the Cru’s own 16, Karsten Libby was able to get into the backfield and block the punt back to the end zone. Eli Hoelke pounced on the ball in the end zone for the special teams score. Jackson Fox hit the extra point to get the Warhawks on the board, 21-7.
Nearing the two-minute warning of the first half, the Warhawks forced another turnover – this time it was Matt Burba that knocked the ball loose and Jaden Hendrickson was credited with the recovery at the UWW 45.
The Crusaders got the ball back on a controversial call. Jackson Chryst attempted a short pass to the right side of the line and receiver Brian Wilterdink was hit as the ball reached him. The officials signaled for a catch and fumble with UMHB recovering at their own 40. That led to a touchdown for Mary Hardin-Baylor and a 28-7 advantage at the break.
The Warhawks seemed to get some momentum early in the second half after scoring on their first drive of the third quarter. Chryst found Wilterdink on a deep ball down the middle for a 43-yard gain down to the UMHB 21 on the second play of the drive. Brian Stanton gave UWW first-and-goal from the 10 on an 11-yard rush, but the drive stalled in the red zone. Fox drilled the 21-yard field goal to make the score 28-10.
UW-Whitewater’s special teams unit continued to try and spark the Warhawks with big plays. The defense forced another three-and-out and Libby got to the punter once again to give UWW great field position at the UMHB 42, but the Cru defense stiffened and kept the Warhawks off of the board.
On UMHB’s next drive, the Cru running back bounced a rush outside and bolted up the sideline for a 96-yard touchdown and a 35-10 lead.
The special teams unit for UW-Whitewater wasn’t done yet. This time it was Nic Hall getting to the UMHB punter for the block. Patrick Lippe notched the scoop-and-score picking the ball up at the UMHB 14 with a clear path to the end zone. Fox made it 35-17 with the point after and the final score of the contest.
Chryst was 20-33 for 236 yards. Stanton led the Warhawks in the ground game with 59 yards on 17 attempts. Tyler Vasey took a couple of direct snaps and bolted through the line for 32 rushing yards. He added three catches for 40 yards.
Blake Haggerty was the favorite target on the day with six receptions for 78 yards while Wilterdink posted 51 yards on three catches.
Defensively, Kyle Koelblinger led UWW with nine tackles including six solo and a tackle for a loss of four yards.
The Warhawks will rest up with a bye week before returning to the gridiron on Saturday, October 5. UW-Whitewater will host UW-Oshkosh for the annual Family Fest game presented by PremierBank at 1 p.m.
Discover Whitewater Series: Sunday, September 22nd
The Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, Half Marathon Team Event, 5k & Kids Koral is this Sunday, September 22nd.
This Sunday the Discover Whitewater Series is set to take off at 7:55 a.m. for the Wheelchair division, and the Half Marathon at 8:00 a.m. with the Half Marathon followed by the 5k beginning at 8:15 a.m. During this time traffic in the area may be affected. Please refer to the course map for detailed information.
The DWS team encourages community members to line the streets and cheer on the runners. Common Council President, Patrick Singer, will be making opening remarks at 7:45 a.m. at Whitewater High School. Help cheer on participants as they run through the city.
The DWS team is working hard to get ready for packet pickup, as many volunteers and team members are currently stuffing shirts, bibs, and goodies for all of the race participants. There is still time to register, volunteers are still needed and it is a great way to get in on the action. Students can receive volunteer hours for participating. Don’t miss out as numbers are climbing. The DWS team is currently prepping the course for another amazing year.
Sign up today to either run or volunteer at: https://RunWhitewater.com/. To see where you can cheer on please see the course map below.
For further details, please contact Jeffery Knight, Executive Director at 920.728.0662 or jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com.
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which provides interim housing for homeless families), Whitewater LEADS, Working for Whitewater’s Wellness (W3), and the J-Hawk Aquatic Club. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com.
“Thirteen Lives”
Tuesday, September 24, 1 p.m.
(Docudrama/Thriller) Rated PG-13; 2 hours, 27 minutes (2022).
The true story of the June 2018 Thailand Tham Luang Cave rescue of 13 young boys and their coach, trapped in a cavern with rising water. A emotional story that riveted the world. Directed by Ron Howard; starring Colin Farrell, Viggo, Mortensen, and Joel Edgerton.
Seniors in the Park is located in Starin Park, 504 W. Starin Road. Although there is no charge to attend, regular participants are encouraged to join Seniors in the Park. The annual fee for residents of the Whitewater Unified School District is $10 and non-residents is $15. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes our of our fundraising monies. If you cannot afford the fee, we have a fund that will cover it for you. Fees are accepted at the Starin Park Community Building or online at https://schedulesplus.com/wwtr/kiosk/
After a very busy road construction season, the last major detour in the city has been lifted with the reopening of Fremont Street. Phase I of the reconstruction began on April 22, at which time it was projected that Fremont Street might reopen by September 1.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay.
The Water Utility will begin its semi-annual water main and hydrant flushing program on Monday, September 23, through Friday, September 27, 2024.
Flushing of water mains is necessary to test the hydrants to make sure adequate flow and pressure is available. It also confirms the fire hydrants and valves are operating correctly. In addition, it enhances water quality by removing sediment from the pipes in order to maintain water clarity and quality in the distribution pipes.
Occasionally, water becomes discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens turn on an outside spigot or a cold water tap, in the lowest level of your home, for a few minutes until the water clears. If it doesn’t clear the first time, wait a few minutes and run the
water again. You may want to wait until the crew has left the area and the water settles down before running your water tap.
Additionally, caution should be exercised in washing of white clothing. Discoloration of water, due to flushing, WILL stain white clothing. Therefore, you should avoid washing clothes until the water clears.
If the Water Utility crew experiences more repairs than expected throughout the week, flushing may continue into the following week. Thank you for your patience and understanding during water main and hydrant flushing.
Jim Bergner, Superintendent
Water Utility
jbergner@whitewater-wi.gov
(262) 473-0560
For other requests, visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/RequestTracker.aspx.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the City of Whitewater.
The Whippet Girls’ tennis team traveled to Edgerton High School for a match dubbed, “The Battle for the Stick,” on Thursday, September 19. This tradition started three years ago between the tennis programs of Edgerton and Whitewater. The Whippets have won the last two years, and the tradition continued Thursday night in a close contest with the Whippets coming out on top by a team score of 4-3.
The Whippet Girls’ Tennis Team will honor the Seniors on Tuesday, September 24 in a home match against Delavan-Darien.
Article and Photos Submitted by Greg Stewart
Whitewater High School Assistant Tennis Coach
gstewart@wwusd.org
Whitewater High School Volleyball hosted the Eagles of Jefferson Thursday night, September 19, in a conference matchup. The Whippets started the night out strong winning the first two sets (25-16, 25-22). The Eagles didn’t back down and fought back to take the remaining three sets to win the match (23-25, 17-25, 8-15).
The Whippets were led offensively by senior Falyn Krahn tallying 13 kills and senior Calli Grosinke dishing out 21 assists. Senior Zoe Kohl controlled the net for the Whippets with 3 blocks. Defensively senior Ella Spear led for the Whippets picking up 24 digs.
The Whippets are off until next Thursday when they travel to East Troy for a Valley Division matchup.
Article Submitted by Caitlin Dowden
Whitewater High School Head Volleyball Coach
dowca01@wwusd.org
Photo courtesy of Bob and Peter Mischka
Obituaries
Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, a proud Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War, and longtime resident of Fort Atkinson, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on May 1, 2026. Larry was born June 7th, 1949, to Levon and Charles Hartung in Chicago, IL. Larry enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1968 and served 3 consecutive tours in the Vietnam War. During this time, he became pen pals with his future wife, Candy, via a connection through his father. In 1970, he came home on leave to marry Candy. They celebrated 55 years of marriage on October 31st, 2025. During … Read more
Leo E. Wurzer, 65, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at his home. Leo was born on April 15, 1961 in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Cyril and Shirley (McNeil) Wurzer. He grew up between Pleasant Prairie and Antigo, spending his childhood summers on his uncle’s farm where he discovered his love for all things tractors. Although he never had a farm of his own, he was able to partially fulfill his dream by working as a driver for Robin’s Trucking in Whitewater, WI in his last days and collecting miniature Tonka toys. He began his career … Read more
Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac, WI (formerly of Janesville, WI, Fort Atkinson, WI, Fountain Hills, AZ, and Green Valley, AZ) passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 at the Meadows Senior Residence in Fond du Lac surrounded by family. Lois was born on February 17, 1927 in Fort Atkinson to Edward and Clarice (Roseth) Stevens. The middle child of 9 children, she attended Fort Atkinson schools and graduated in 1944. On September 11, 1948 Lois married Grant Cummings at Saint Andrew Catholic Church in Delavan, WI. Together they had 3 children, Gary, Colleen (Tom) Sabel, and Patty (Paul) … Read more
Come celebrate William Kincaid’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 30th at 1 pm at Trippe Lake Park Pavillion in Whitewater. He truly enjoyed gatherings where his favorite foods and music could be enjoyed with some of his closest friends and family. We will honor him by carrying on one of his favorite traditions. Please bring your own beverages and chairs. There is limited seating. See you all there!
Gladys Jean (Riley) Hildebrandt, age 89, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026. Gladys was born on December 26, 1936, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Theresa Egnoski Riley. She was married to Walter Sobolik Sr., and later married James A. Hildebrandt in 1976. Gladys was a hardworking woman who spent her life caring for others. She worked in school kitchens, restaurants, factories, and cleaning services. She concluded her working career as a full-time nanny. In that role, she lovingly cared for Andrew, Daniel, and Kaitlyn Drzewiecki, who became part of her chosen family. Gladys is survived by her sons, Wally … Read more
WHITEWATER – Nan Rowley died on April 15, 2026, at the age of 90. She was born on September 4, 1935, in a little house on the prairie in the Town of Johnstown, Wisconsin, the daughter of Wayne L. Wilbur and Florence (McQuillen) Wilbur. Nan attended primary schools in the towns of Johnstown and Richmond and in the City of Whitewater. Nan graduated with honors from Whitewater City High School. On June 19, 1954, Nancy and Ken Rowley were united in marriage in Whitewater and went to live on the Rowley family farm in Richmond. Over the years, Nan served … Read more
Marion H. Gorniak (nee Pfeiffer), 74, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 11, 2026. She was born on October 24, 1951, to the late Harvey and Loraine (nee Drifke) Pfeiffer in Fort Atkinson, WI. On June 2, 1969, she was united in marriage to Alan Gorniak. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and cooking, especially her rhubarb pies. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be missed by all who knew her. Those Marion leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Alan Gorniak; stepson, Alan Bauer; sister, Sue Ann Schultz, other relatives and friends. … Read more
Ruth Irene (Phelps) Justis, 88, of Appleton City, Missouri, passed away Friday morning, April 10, 2026, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, MO, with her family by her side. Ruth was born June 3, 1937 in Janesville, Wisconsin, to Charles and Ada Mae (Maly) Phelps. She joined the Marine Corps in 1956. During her time there, she met and married her husband, Forest Wayne “Wayne” Justis in 1957. They shared 62 years of marriage and to this union, 2 children, Charles and Dorene, were born. Ruth grew up in Whitewater, WI., the oldest of three children. Ruth graduated from … Read more
Dorothy C. Kau, age 101, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Fort Memorial Hospital. Dorothy was born on March 18, 1925 in Eagle on the family farm, the daughter of John and Katherine (Faestel) VonRueden. Dorothy was a 1942 graduate of Palmyra High School. On May 21, 1949, Dorothy was united in marriage to Alvin E. Kau at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Eagle and the Lord blessed their union with 8 children. Alvin and Dorothy enjoyed 50 years of marriage together until Alvin’s death in the year 2000. Dorothy enjoyed being a farm … Read more
Dorothy E. McCracken, 95, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in Sarasota, Florida. Born on April 14, 1930, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Carl and Joyce Meyer, Dorothy grew up in Whitewater and graduated from Whitewater High School. She then worked for a photographer and hand painted his first colored portraits, until she got married. She and her first husband, Bernard Wafle, owned and operated a 179-acre dairy farm in Helenville, Wisconsin, for 25 years before relocating to Ocala, Florida, in 1979. Dorothy later married Earl McCracken, in Ocala, Fl. She also shared a special companionship later in life with … Read more
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