7th Grade Football Narrowly Defeated By West Salem

The 7th Grade Jack Young Middle School Football Thunderbirds experienced a thrilling but ultimately heartbreaking first regular season game, resulting in a narrow 28-26 defeat against the West Salem Panthers on September 23, 2025, at the West Salem Elementary School Youth Field in West Salem, Wisconsin. The game, marked by its competitive spirit and dynamic plays, started under ideal weather conditions with a beautiful, sunny 70-degree day providing a perfect backdrop for football. The first half proved to be a closely contested battle, with West Salem securing a slight edge with an 8-6 lead at halftime. The end of the half was highlighted by a pass break up on defense by defensive back Owen Basinski followed up by an interception by Basinski in the closing minutes of the half as West Salem drove deep into Baraboo territory. Baraboo showcased outstanding individual performances, particularly from Fullback AJ Carney, who made an explosive 70-yard touchdown run, breaking multiple tackles. Wing Back Carson Reynolds added to the scoring with a robust run around the right end. Quarterback Owen Basinski contributed significantly, completing three of his four attempted passes for over 100 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown pass to Carney. Fullback Mac Bavlnka had a long run up the gut on offense. Wing Back Will Brinker ran in a two point conversion. Additionally, defensive efforts were highlighted by Luke Englund's recovery of a fumbled punt snap in the end zone for a touchdown. Linebacker Treyton Bourne had multiple tackles for loss and Carson Reynolds added a QB sack from his defensive back position. On special teams, Jack Wagner was solid in coverage tackling while Treyton Bourne and Jake Puttkamer went back and forth as kickers blasting deep boots down field after each Thunderbird touchdown. Despite leading 26-20 with less than three minutes left in the game, Baraboo could not maintain their lead after failing to convert on 3rd and long and 4th and long. West Salem took over on a short field and capitalized on key plays, including consistent rollout passes to their tight end, to make a final push and secure the win with a score and two point conversion in the final minute. A last effort by Baraboo to rally back in the final 41 seconds of game play was unsuccessful, leaving them just short of victory as the game clock hit zeros. Looking ahead, the Baraboo Thunderbirds 7th Grade football team will next take on Holmen on September 30, 2025, at Flambeau Field at Beryl Newman Stadium in Baraboo for their home opener. The team now holds a 0-1 record and is eager to rebound against the Vikings!