Brillion football is ready to roar in 2026.
Winning has been a staple of the Brillion football program for years, with countless conference championships, postseason appearances, and four state titles, with the most recent coming in 2010.
Tanner Behnke was a part of that team that defeated Colby-Abbotsford 31-10 on a chilly November afternoon at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison to capture a Division Five state championship.
Fast forward a few years as he returns for a ninth season as Head football coach at his alma mater.
He tells SeehaferNews.com that it’s gone by in the blink of an eye.
“It’s been fun because the program keeps developing,” he added. “It’s changed so much in nine years, and with opportunities that we’ve been able to provide the kids, along with keeping on developing the core principles that Brillion football is based upon, has been nothing but enjoyable.”
Those core principles are accountability, responsibility, hard work, and loving your teammates unconditionally.
Senior Liam Meyer is the leading returning tackler from 2025, recording 60 total, 30 of which were solo and 10 TFL’s (tackles for loss).
He says everyone has put in the necessary sweat equity to succeed in 2026.
“Everyone has been working very hard all summer long on both the field and in the classroom,” the senior defender explained. “We’re all giving 100 percent effort and, in my opinion, we’re off to a great start to the year.”
Senior Sammy Nolasco returns and will be counted heavily for leadership and production on both the offensive and defensive lines.
He says he fell in love with the game at a very young age.
“The first time I stepped on the field as a freshman, I was so nervous just trying to find my way,” he recalled. “Now as a senior, I just can’t wait to step onto the field and play the game that I love so much and help my team succeed.”
Another player that will be relied upon heavily is senior Weston Schmitt.
He was the Loins second leading rusher in 2025 behind Heath Cousin, who, along with his twin brother Hayden and Brenner Hall, have graduated, taking their more than 1700 rushing yards with them.
Weston will man an outside linebacker spot as well, where a year ago he recorded 42 total tackles, 15 of which were solo.
He says he’s ready to assume all responsibilities that come his way.
“I’m ready to show everyone what I’m capable of,” he said with confidence. “None of us succeed with all of us working together as a team. My approach as a runner is putting my head down and gaining as many yards as possible.”
The Lions shared the EWC title with Roncalli last year, and despite the loss of a talented group of seniors, Coach Behnke feels they have the potential to make a run to defend their crown.
“To get a game in the playoffs is always the goal,” he explained. “Ultimately, it’s if we can stay healthy, and as coaches it’s our responsibility to put these kids in the best position to be successful. If we accomplish those things, it’ll be a successful year for us.”
Brillion begins the season tonight hosting Sturgeon Bay, then travels to Manitowoc Lutheran the following Thursday (August 27th) and opens EWC play at Valders on September 4th.
