3rd Annual Mauston Border Battle

The Kettle Moraine Knightmares again hosted a Border Battle between MN and WI teams.  This is the 3^rd year of the tournament that meets at a neutral site in Mauston, WI.  Tournament regulars Armstrong and Hopkins from MN came to play against the usual WI teams, KM and Oak Creek as well as new participants, Brookfield and Wauwatosa.  It was an extremely windy day, and teams struggled going into the wind.  This led to teams trying to take the most advantage out of their half with the wind.  Kicking for points, and punting down field to keep the play in the opposition’s half were common.  Teams that were able to keep possession going into the wind were the ones that had success. 

Armstrong came away from the day leading all teams at 3-0.  After a tight match against KM, where they managed to get by Wisconsin's #3 team, 17-12, they proceeded able to build on their strengths as one of the top MN teams.  They finished with wins against Oak Creek and Brookfield.  Hopkins as well got past a close Oak Creek match to build to a 2-0 day with a final win against Wauwatosa.  In a make-up game, Brookfield defeated Wauwatosa.   

MN is just heading into their playoffs for their state tournament.  The Border Battle is a nice change of pace in a long spring season and a chance to see competition from a neighboring state.  It’s been clear from the tournaments this spring that the success of OH, WI and MN programs comes from the depth and competitiveness of the individual leagues each faces on a regular basis. 

KM	12	Armstrong	17
Oak Creek	17	Hopkins	25
Tosa	12	Brookfield	22
Oak Creek	0	Armstrong	55
Tosa	5	Hopkins	29
Brookfield	0	Armstrong	41