Springs Football Turns the Page, Wilderman Ready to Write the Next Chapter

FOND DU LAC, WI — A new era begins at St. Mary’s Springs High School, but the foundation remains rock solid. After 15 years of dedicated service as an assistant coach—including a long tenure as defensive coordinator—Zach Wilderman starts as the new head football coach, succeeding the iconic Bob Hyland.

Hyland, whose name is synonymous with excellence in Wisconsin high school football, leaves behind a legacy that spans decades, filled with championships, community impact, and a culture of discipline. For Wilderman, stepping into the role is not about rewriting the playbook—it’s about honoring the tradition and continuing the mission.

Wilderman’s journey to the top of the Springs football program began in nearby Mayville, where he was a standout athlete in both football and baseball. Known for his toughness and leadership on the field, he carried those traits to Marian University, where he played collegiate baseball and deepened his understanding of team dynamics and competitive spirit.

After college, Wilderman sought a place where he could make a difference. That place turned out to be St. Mary’s Springs, where Bob Hyland welcomed him onto the coaching staff. Over the next 15 years, Wilderman became a fixture on the sidelines, earning respect for his strategic mind and steady presence—especially on the defensive side of the ball.

With the 2025 season approaching, anticipation is high. Players are eager to take the field under Wilderman’s leadership, and the community is rallying behind a coach who’s already proven his commitment to the program.

Though the shoes he fills are enormous, Zach Wilderman isn’t trying to be Bob Hyland. He’s trying to be the best version of himself—guided by the lessons of a legend, driven by the heart of a hometown athlete, and focused on keeping the Springs legacy alive and thriving.

Here is an interview with Zach Wilderman and Nick Van Nocker – KFIZ Sports