MONROE — According to Monroe High School Activities director Jeff Newcomer, not many communities in Wisconsin have such a proud and rich history of high school athletics. Eighteen Monroe High School teams, which included over 400 student athletes, have brought home a state championship in the school’s history. 

A local group set out to make sure that these teams won’t be forgotten.

The goal to upgrade the Monroe High School State Championship recognition signs is progressing. The project started about a year ago with initial fundraising. Approval for sign installation is a time-consuming task, and obtaining all the necessary authorization is a long drawn out process. 

Two new signs have been installed — recently one on Wisconsin 81 across from the government services building and the other on Wis. 69 across from Leisure Lanes on the south side of town. Two larger signs are planned to be installed soon as well. One will be at the existing location across from the Green County Highway Department on 6th Street and Wis. 59. The other is planned to be located on the north end of Monroe on 18th Avenue at Wis. 69.

“The actual finished product, signs in the ground, has been a cooperative effort with landowners, city, county and state officials. We are thankful for their cooperation,” said Newcomer, who is also a co-chair of the project. “Also helpful in the process are Chad Kundert of Kundert Construction for sign installation and Curt Elmer of 510 Graphics for sign design.”

“Funding for the recognition boards has been somewhat successful,” said Reid Stangel, project co-chair. “There are 18 state championship teams acknowledged on the championship boards, there are over 400 MHS athletes who have been a part of those state championship teams. Additional funding is needed to complete the project and ensure the future maintenance.”

Interested donors should contact Jeff Newcomer at 608-228-6438 or Reid Stangel at 608-426-4499.