100 Years of Pecatonica Football

From 1963 to 1970, Blanchardville played 11-man football in the State Line League. The teams were Blanchardville, Argyle, Brodhead, South Wayne, New Glarus, Belleville, Orfordville, and Juda. The only school change was in 1967 when South Wayne and Gratiot consolidated to become Blackhawk.

  During this period, Blanchardville had some success, finishing 3rd in 1963. They won the Conference Championship in 1967. In 1968, they finished 4th, and in 1970, they finished 3rd. The overall record from 1963 to 1970 was 28 wins, 35 losses, and 4 ties.

  There were three different coaches during this eight-year span: Coach McCormack in 1963, Coach Martin in 1964, and Coach Carter from 1965 to 1970. 1970 was the last year Blanchardville High School competed in High School Football. Hollandale and Blanchardville consolidated to become Pecatonica Area Schools for the 1971 season.

  Here are some notes from Blanchardville High School Football, 1925 – 1970:
  Years Competed – 46
  Years in League Play – 30
  League Championships – 8
  Games Played – 339
  Record – 180 wins, 138 losses, 21 ties
  Winning % – 56.5%
  Coaches – 22

  Also of note is that there were no playoffs during this time. The WIAA began sponsoring playoffs in 1976.

  At times, this is good because everyone involved can think about what might have been. As we get older, we remember that we were bigger, faster and better as a team than we really were. I am sure there will be discussions about past football seasons as this weekend rolls around.