A Historic Run: The 2024 Slinger Owls Football State Championship

In a season that will be remembered for years in Slinger, Wisconsin, the Slinger Owls football team soared to a historic 2024 state championship, ending the year with a perfect 14-0 record and capturing the WIAA Division 2 title in dramatic fashion at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison.

Unprecedented Success and a Return to Glory

For the first time in 26 years, the Slinger Owls stood atop Wisconsin high school football. Their second state championship in school history — the first since 1998 — came after a series of memorable performances throughout the season, blending resilience, teamwork, and community pride.

From the opening kickoff to the final whistle of the state title game, Slinger was dominant and consistent, winning each of its 14 contests en route to the pinnacle of Wisconsin high school football.

The Championship Thriller: Slinger vs. Rice Lake

On November 21, 2024, under the bright lights at Camp Randall Stadium, the Owls faced a gritty Rice Lake Warriors team in the Division 2 state championship game. After falling behind at halftime, Slinger rallied behind a balanced attack and opportunistic defense.

The climax came in the final minutes: with the game tied and momentum shifting, Slinger capitalized on a key turnover and orchestrated a go-ahead touchdown drive, capped by a 2-yard plunge into the end zone that put them ahead 31–30.

A crucial late defensive stand — including stopping Rice Lake on a pivotal 4th down — sealed the victory and delivered the state championship to Slinger for the first time in a generation.

Leadership and Teamwork

Head Coach Bill Jacklin, a Slinger native and fixture at the school for over a decade, played a central role in the Owls’ success. His emphasis on unity — encapsulated in team mottos like “All In as One” — helped cultivate a culture of trust, resilience, and mutual support that defined the season.

The importance of leadership extended beyond the field: Jacklin’s accomplishments earned him prestigious recognition, including being named the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year for the NFC, an honor celebrating character, leadership, and community impact.

Standout Performances and Memorable Moments

Quarterback Michael Thiede led the Owls’ offense with precision and grit, completing a high percentage of passes and contributing key rushing scores in the title game. His leadership under center was a cornerstone of Slinger’s offensive effectiveness throughout the season.

Defensively and on special teams, the Owls made timely plays when it mattered most — including forced turnovers and critical stops — demonstrating the depth and determination of the roster.

A Legacy for the Community

The 2024 championship wasn’t just a win on the field; it was a unifying milestone for the Slinger community. Fans traveled in force to Madison, creating an electric atmosphere at Camp Randall and showcasing the pride that this small Wisconsin town has in its high school program.

Students, alumni, and supporters rallied behind the team all season long, celebrating not only the victories but the hard work and spirit that carried the Owls to the top.

Final Score:

Slinger Owls 31, Rice Lake 30 — WIAA Division 2 State Championship at Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, WI.

The 2024 Slinger Owls will forever be remembered as a team that combined heart, skill, and community spirit to achieve gridiron glory — a story that will inspire future generations of players and fans alike.