K.H.S. Skiers Contribute to 28th Consecutive Trip to State

The West Bend Co-Op Alpine Ski Team brought their talents to the 2025 WIARA State Championship at Mt. La Crosse on Sunday, Feb. 16, and Monday, Feb. 17. Caleb Rands and Ephraim Essinger of Kewaskum helped play a crucial role in the boys’ impressive fifth-place finish out of 23 teams at state.
This year marked the team’s 28th consecutive state appearance. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams qualified. The competition brought together the top 12 boys’ and girls’ varsity teams in the state, along with individual qualifiers who earned their spots throughout the season.
The West Bend Co-Op girls placed 11th, while the boys’ performance earned them fifth place overall.
Rands and Essinger, key members of the seven-person boys’ team, contributed strong runs throughout the event, helping solidify the team’s spot among Wisconsin’s top five high school groups.
“We are so very proud of these athletes and the way they competed at state,” said Jon Sison, the team’s coach. “Caleb and Ephraim were an important part of the team’s success.”

Twenty-eight straight trips to state is an amazing accomplishment, and it speaks to the dedication of everyone involved.
The West Bend Co-Op program works to continue to build its portfolio and reputation each year.
“Thank you to our great sponsors for supporting us along the way,” the coach added.
As the season comes to a close, the team is able to reflect on another strong year. The West Bend Co-Op team will look to build on its success next season, hoping to extend its state streak to 29 years.