Delavan-Darien aims for first state title in 40 years

Delavan-Darien High School football has never won a state championship, but the program is now the final team from Walworth County remaining in the postseason bracket.

The Comets defeated Edgewood 42-35 on the road last week to reach the third round, a milestone not achieved since 2010. Head coach Mark Kibler, a 2006 graduate of the school, has guided the team to the Division 4 playoffs for three consecutive seasons. Prior to this year, the squad was eliminated in the second round in both of the previous two seasons.

The coaching staff consists largely of former students. Kibler and the assistant coaches all attended Delavan-Darien. Dan Brandt, a former teacher at the school and current team announcer, noted that he taught many of the current coaches. He described the staff as grown adults who were once in his classroom. Jennifer McKean, the Booster Club treasurer, confirmed that local residents are frequently asked about the team’s performance. Her son, Braedyn, plays on the roster.

The Comets are the fourth seed in the division. They will travel to face top-seeded Lake Mills on Friday night. A victory would secure a spot in the final game for the state title. Brandt stated that the players make the community proud. He added that the deep connection between the staff and the town makes the current success feel personal. McKean said the enthusiasm is visible in daily life, with people commenting on her team apparel. Brandt predicted that a state championship would cause mayhem in the community.

The team enters Friday’s game as the underdog against the top seed. The outcome will determine if Delavan-Darien can claim its first state trophy. The match will be played on Lake Mills’ home field.