KAUKAUNA — As far as rivalry games go, Kaukauna-Kimberly still ranks at the top when it comes to Fox Valley Association football. But considering games of consequence, Kaukauna-West De Pere has become must-watch football across the state.
The top-seeded Kaukauna Ghosts take on the No. 3 Phantoms Friday for the second time this season when they host West De Pere in a Level 3, WIAA Division 2 playoff game.
Here’s a look at how the two teams have battled the past three seasons:
2024
During this year’s regular season, Kaukauna came from two scores down in the first half to defeat the Phantoms 35-31. The win was sealed with a game clinching punchout just as the Phantoms appeared to be on their way to a go-ahead score.
2023
A year ago, Kaukauna outlasted West De Pere 13-7 in a Level 2 game to advance in the WIAA Division 2 playoffs. The Ghosts won their week 2 matchup 25-22. Kaukauna then lost in the state semifinal for the second straight year, this time to Waunakee. Waunakee lost to eventual state champion Badger from Lake Geneva. This year, Waunakee has moved up to Division 1.
2022
The Ghost advanced to the state semifinal game for the first time under coach Matt Binsfeld, but a 26-7 loss to West De Pere put an end to the Ghosts season one game before a trip to Camp Randall.
Earlier that season, the Ghosts lost a 43-42 nailbiter at west De Pere, highlighting how close the rivalry has been.
