St. Mary’s Springs Academy to dedicate Hyland Field before Saturday’s football season opener

St. Mary’s Springs Academy will officially dedicate its football field in honor of legendary coach Bob Hyland Saturday, August 22, 2026, as the Ledgers open their 2026 season.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for Hyland Field is scheduled for 12:40 in the afternoon, just before the Ledgers take on Darlington at one o’clock.

The dedication honors Hyland, who spent 54 seasons leading the Springs football program before retiring following the 2024 season.

Hyland finished his career with 522 victories, making him the winningest high school football coach in Wisconsin history. During his career, his Springs teams won 17 state championships, including nine WIAA titles after the school joined the association in 2000. He also led the program to 36 conference championships and 12 undefeated seasons.

Hyland began coaching at St. Mary’s Springs in 1971, after playing college football at North Dakota State. He also spent decades teaching at Springs.

The school has been adding several features to the new Hyland Field, including an Our Lady of Victory statue overlooking the field. A permanent plaque honoring Hyland is also planned, featuring a cast of his hand near the stadium stairs.

This would give players an opportunity to high-five their legendary former coach as they take the field.

Also new to the stadium is the installation of bleachers and a press box and concession stand.