Siren 8 keep rolling, now face only other undefeated team

Among the notables were quarterback Nick Webster continuing to amass huge numbers on offense, including going 11 of 16 attempts for 116 yards and a score. He was intercepted once.

Webster also scored three times on the ground, adding an amazing 275 yards fo rushing on 42 attempts to his notable season stats. 

Wyatt Anton scored once on a Webster pass, and Lucas D’Jock added a rushing touchdown to the mix in the victory, which leaves the Dragons with an overall record fo 10-0, and going further than they have ever gone in the football playoffs. 

But the Dragons have a hard draw, as they are set to play Wausau Newman in Chippewa Falls this Friday against the only other undefeated team in 8-player football, who happened to appear at last years’ State Tournament. 

Dragon head coach Ryan Karsten reflected on the season so far, and their prospects against Wausau Newman this Friday: “It has been a fun season for our players, the coaches and the community. We have achieved every goal that we could have so far, and Wausau Newman is the next challenge in front of us,” Karsten said. “They are the only other undefeated 8-man team in the state. They are the defeated State Champions. It will be a great test for our program. They are well coached and have some great athletes over there.”

Karsten also reflected on the season so far and in general, noting it was only the second time in history the school won a playoff game.  

“We were conference champions. We defeated Luck for the first time in nine years,” Karsten added, while also pointing out Nick Wester’s amazing season. “Webster has had a great season running and passing the ball. One of the best seasons ever, statistically, that the state has ever seen and the stats he has put up put him in the top three of many state records all time categories.” 

But the coach was also quick to note the supporting cast: “We have had many other players have great years for us. Derek Thiex has been a rock on offense and a really good defensive tackle for us. Levi Hayman has been one of the best players on the defensive side of the state and has done a great job blocking on the O-line. Lucas D'Jock has led our defense and is one of the top tacklers in the state and has run for over 600 yards,” he said.

He also pointed out some names that don’t always get mentioned: “Wyatt D'Jock as had a great year on the D-line, at 150 pounds he battles every night and causes many disruptive plays and has block well on offense as our tight end. Wyatt Anton has one of our leading receivers with almost 500 yards receiving. Landyn Randt is leading the team with 31 catches and has been really good as a defensive back this year. Luke Pettis has had a great overall season, with four kick returns for a TD and many other touchdowns on offense, plus has played well as a defensive back. Joel Hillman has battled injuries, but still continues to block well for us. Jaxson Reynolds has stepped up and filled in when needed and has done a great job on the offensive line. Derrick Helene has found a role as our weakside linebacker and has made many plays on the defensive side of the ball. Nick Wendland has filled in wherever we need a guy and has given us quality minutes when we ask. Jerome McGeshick has filled in on the defensive backfield or as a wide receiver and done a nice job for us. Joe Wiltrout has been a great special team player for us and has stepped in and given the defense a boost this season. Seth Taylor has made some great catches for us as a starting wide receiver this year,” Karsten added.  

But the team has drawn some real interest across the region and has definitely earned respect from other teams.

“I am proud of the effort and dedication of my team, and I am very pleased to see all the support the players are getting from the community,” Karsten said. “Present and past Dragons have taken notice and it is a great thing to see.”

Siren plays this Friday, Nov. 4 in Chippewa Falls against Wausau Neuman. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.