History

Preparation for the upcoming 2025 football season of the Wisconsin All-American Youth Football League has already begun. This season will be the 49th for the League. The WIAAYFL will field 146 teams at the four levels of play (5th through 8th grade), representing 32 member organizations. The anticipated number of players involved will be over 3500. The story of the WIAAYFL and its amazing growth has a very modest beginning.

It was June 27, 1977 when representatives from 4 communities met to discuss the formation of a new youth football league. The “Founders” at this meeting included; Don Didier (Saukville Rebels), Larry Huffman, Tom Volke (Thiensville-Mequon Cardinals), Ron Heller (Grafton Gladiators), and Henry “Sam” Sampson (Cedarburg Colts). The name of the new league would be the “AllAmerican Youth Conference” and Tom Volke (1977-1981) was appointed to serve as the league's first “Program Coordinator” (later called Commissioner). Saukville, a well-established program having been formed in 1961, playing as an independent, ThiensvilleMequon, which was established in 1976 as members of the former Vince Lombardi Conference, and Grafton, having been established in late 1976 were the “veterans” of this new league. Cedarburg was a newly established program. Some rules of interest were included 10-minute quarters and no weight limits for any position. The 1977 season began on September 10th with the members playing a round robin schedule at the 8th grade level, and concluded with Thiensville-Mequon being crowned the League’s first Champion. This was the beginning of what would become the largest youth football league in Wisconsin and one of the largest independent league's in the United States.

Starting in the 1978 season, “growth” would become a defining term associated with the new league. Officials pay would be $15.00 for each game. Three WIAA officials were required to work each game. This season added new members from Muskego (Chargers), Milwaukee South (Packers), St. Francis (Warriors), as well as adding an additional level of play as teams began fielding “B” teams. Future membership interest had been expressed from Greendale, Bayview, Franklin, Brookfield, and Waukesha. The 1978 season concluded on November 4th with the Championship game in which Grafton defeated Milwaukee South 20-14 at South Stadium.

For the 1979 season, a new member was added from Bayview (Redcats) who were established in 1953, and were moving from the Athletes for Youth Conference. Kettle Moraine (Hornets) played on a trial basis against members in the league. Team rosters were growing, there were now over 400 players in the league. Defending League Champion Grafton won the North Division, while in the South Division, Muskego and St. Francis played a tie-breaker game on Tuesday, November 6th to determine the South representative. On Saturday, November 10th Muskego defeated Grafton at Grafton High School for the 1979 Championship, in a game that became known as the “snow game”.

Rapid growth within the league continued in 1980; Kettle Moraine became official members and new members were added from Franklin (Hornets), St. Mary’s (Royals) of Hales Corners, Glendale-North Shore (Rams), Menomonee Falls (Jayhawks), Westosha Salem (Raiders), Greendale (Panthers), and Greenfield (Eagles). Greendale defeated three time Northern Champion, Grafton, for the league Championship.

For the first time since the league’s inception, 1981 saw no expansion as far as new membership in the league. The league had grown to 16 member organizations. Unfortunately, prior to the start of the season St. Mary’s dropped out of the league. A significant rule change that came into effect this year was concerning scoring extra points. The membership passed on an 8-5 vote to make kick extra points worth two points and run/pass extra points worth one point. There also became a requirement that all teams “freeze” 15 players on their roster who could not play down at the “B” level. The Championship game in 1981 pitted charter member Saukville against new comer Westosha Salem. Saukville won by a score of 21-6.

The 1982 season was one of “change”. The league’s first Commissioner Tom Volke stepped down after the 1981 season and Roger Miller (1982-1983) of Saukville was elected the new commissioner. The Milwaukee South and Franklin programs merged into a newly formed program that would be known as the Franklin Rockets. Kettle Moraine also changed its name from the Hornets to the Comets. Once again, there was no new member growth, however, there were now 11 organizations fielding a “B” team. Greendale defeated Thiensville-Mequon, 20-8, for its second league championship.

The 1983 season started with “controversy”, a new program was formed in Kettle Moraine. The league membership stated they would not support two programs in the same drawing area. However, in May of 1983, the league approved membership of the Kettle Moraine Junior Lasers, after the Kettle Moraine Comets moved to Wauwatosa and became known as the Wauwatosa Comets. Commissioner Miller produced the league’s first directory, which provided information on each member organization and their Head Coaches. Grafton returned to the Championship game and defeated Westosha Salem by a score of 34-0. Mukwonago and Elkhorn have expressed interest in joining the league. In December 1983, Commissioner Miller resigned. Jim Jarecki (1984-1990) of Greendale was elected commissioner of the league beginning in 1984. Suggested officials pay would be $20.00 for one game and $35.00 for two games.

In January 1984, Commissioner Jarecki sent his first correspondence to the membership with what became his signature closing “Just for Kids” which is still used for most Commissioner correspondence today. The league became known as the Wisconsin All-American Youth Football League (AAYFL). New members from Mukwonago (Braves) and Random Lake (Junior Rams) joined the league in late January. The membership once again totaled 16 organizations. However, in late August, Commissioner Jarecki informed the membership of events which would effect the game schedule. After repeated attempts to contact Greenfield, Commissioner Jarecki was informed that they had decided to disband the program several weeks earlier. Glendale-North Shore also received permission from Commissioner Jarecki to field a “B” team only, due to lack of numbers at the 8th grade. For the first time, in league history, a coach was suspended due to actions detrimental to the goals of the AAYFL. Greendale defeated Thiensville-Mequon, 12-6, for its third league championship. At the 1984 year end meeting, the membership approved administrative changes to address events which occurred during the season. The members approved the formal appointment of a rules committee, as well as a protest committee. Members also approved a requirement that each member have a signed contract for three WIAA Officials for each home game. Failure to provide proof of contracting three officials for each home game would result in forfeiture of those games.

The 1985 season started with the unfortunate disbanding of the Glendale-North Shore program for lack of interest. Another important event of this season was the approval of the league’s first Liability and Medical Insurance Program. Previously, insurance was left up to each individual member, many of which were not covered. Commissioner Jarecki presented a insurance program developed for the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The AAYFL became an “Official Member” of the NRPA on August 9, 1985. This qualified the league members access to the group insurance provided to the NRPA. Greendale defeated Mukwonago, 8-6, for its fourth championship and the league’s first back-to-back champion.

The 1986 season started out with a “special presentation” to Tom Volke, first AAYFL Commissioner and one of the original league founders. The league “retired” the original traveling championship trophy. The trophy was presented to “Commissioner Volke” with an inscription of appreciation of his efforts for the good of the league. Commissioner Jarecki established formal expansion guidelines for teams requesting membership. The same guidelines are in use today. Sheboygan and Brown Deer were scheduled to make formal presentations to join in 1986. However, at the last minute Sheboygan, decided not to present. Brown Deer (Rams) were approved for membership on April 9th. Mandatory insurance coverage through the NRPA program was approved by the membership as a requirement of league membership. The membership also voted to have the Commissioner assign all officials for the league. Westosha Salem disbanded their program just prior to the start of the season play. There were 14 member organizations, each fielding an “A” and “B” team for the first time in league history. The 10th league championship game played on October 26th was won by Franklin, 32-8 over Saukville.

The 1987 season saw a rule change which became known as the “Franklin Rule”. Prior to this, sons or nephews of coaches were allowed to play on the team of their coaching relative. This rule was abused by some teams to the detriment of fairness within the league. The members approved a rule change that required all players on a team roster to be residents of that team’s boundary area, with no exceptions. The league headed into the season with 14 members fielding teams again at the “A” and “B” levels, as well as five members fielding a “C” team on an unofficial basis. Unfortunately, on July 27th, Commissioner Jarecki informed the membership that Franklin, the 1986 AAYFL Champion, had decided to drop from the league and disband their program due to “no money, no players, no interest”. Another set back occurred in mid-August, when Commissioner Jarecki was forced to remove Brown Deer from league membership for failing to follow league rules. In one of the most exciting League Championship games to date, Mukwonago defeated Saukville, 20-12. Mukwonago came back from a 12-0 deficit to win the game.

After the controversies of the 1987 season, the league was once again looking at growth in 1988. In April, new programs from Waukesha South (Junior Blackshirts) and Hartford (Orioles) were added to the membership. Another potential program from Whitnall had decided not to seek membership at this time. All teams in the league were now required to field an “A” and “B” team. In early August, at a pool side league meeting at Commissioner Jarecki’s home, a “surprise guest” attended and spoke on the importance of providing quality youth football for kids. Commissioner Jarecki’s close friend, Ray Nitschke, Green Bay Packer and NFL Hall of Famer, shared his thoughts with the membership. While many have forgotten most of went on at this meeting, it is still remembered by all as the time “Ray Nitschke” showed up! Greendale defeated Menomonee Falls 34-12 for its 5th league championship.

While 1989 did not show any growth in the league membership, there was developing interest in a number of communities, especially Brookfield Central, who hoped to be able to request membership by the 1990 season. Officials pay increased by $1.00 per game. The per game fee would now become $21.00. Grafton requested and was allowed to field an “A” team only due to lack of numbers. Greendale defeated Saukville, 14-12, in a game that saw Saukville coming back from a 14-0 deficit. The game ended with Greendale intercepting a Saukville pass in a final attempt to score. For the second time in League history, Greendale once again won back-toback Championships, a feat that has not occurred since. Greendale became the team of the 80’s with six League Championships in the decade.

In January 1990, Commissioner Jarecki informed the members of a new “helmet policy” introduced by helmet manufacturer Riddell. This policy placed a usable life on any Riddell Football Helmet at the Youth and Varsity levels. Many organizations found that a large number of helmets had to be replaced, to maintain safety and protection of insurance liability coverage. At the March 7th league meeting, the membership approved the addition of new members from Fredonia (Warriors) and Whitnall (Falcons). Also Commissioner Jarecki unexpectedly announced his “retirement” as commissioner. The membership accepted Commissioner Jarecki’s recommendation and approved Jim Grisaffi (1990-2006) of Kettle Moraine as the league's fourth commissioner. In Jim Jarecki’s final correspondence to the league, he wrote the following; “... Since taking this job a few years ago, it has always been one of my private goals to take the game out of the hands of “character coaches” and put it in the hands of the kids, where it belongs. Hopefully, on any decisions I have made, I’ve kept the kids first and foremost in my mind. With that, I would like to sign off one final time with... “Just for Kids”, Jim Jarecki, Retired Commissioner.” To honor Jim Jarecki and his service and commitment to the AAYFL, his signature closing is still used today as a reminder that this league is for the kids. Commissioner Grisaffi proposed a format change at the “A” level that would divide the league into two Conferences, with two divisions in each. The North Conference would have the Northeast and Northwest Divisions and the South Conference, the Southeast and Southwest Divisions. The league would also officially recognize the “C” level within the league. The membership decided to end the practice playing a game between Conference Champion “B” teams. Conference runner-ups would now play a “consolation game” prior to the Championship game. The consolation game was played only in the 1990 and 1991 seasons, before being dropped by the membership. The AAYFL now had 16 members fielding 38 teams at 3 levels of play. On November 3rd, St. Francis defeated Menomonee Falls, 30-6 for their first AAYFL “Grand Championship.”

On March 18, 1991, the AAYFL Membership approved the addition of the Brookfield (Shamrocks) and Hartland-Lake Country (Chiefs) to the league. Based on a proposal from Grafton, the membership also approved a design for a new league patch insignia, which became a requirement on all league game uniforms. For the first time since 1983, Commissioner Grisaffi produced a league directory which had organization information and maps to home fields. Commissioner Grisaffi re-established the rules committee, which had been absent for a few years. Appointment was based on representation from each of the four divisions in the league and the commissioner. The committee was also given the task of developing by-laws for the AAYFL, as a prelude to league incorporation. On July 30th, the membership approved the formation of an Executive Board. The first officers were from the rules committee and included; Commissioner Grisaffi, Bob Kiefer (Deputy Commissioner North Conference) of Grafton, Ed Mies (Deputy Commissioner South Conference) of Waukesha , Doug Sarver (Secretary) of St. Francis, and Dan Braden (Treasurer) of Menomonee Falls. On November 3rd, Mukwonago defeated Saukville for their second league championship, by a score of 22-14.

The 1992 season continued the recent growth in the league over the past few years. On March 16th, a new Franklin (Fighting Sabres) organization was approved by the league members. Mukwonago requested approval to field two teams, (Blue and Gold), at the “A” and “B” levels. The membership approved the “split teams” request on a trial basis for this season. Officials pay was increased to $60.00 for working three games. The league had now grown to 19 member organizations, fielding 54 teams, including 14 “C” teams. Through the efforts of the Executive Board, May 30th saw the first AAYFL Coaches’ Clinic. It was held in the Library of Brookfield Central, with appx. 30 coaches’ in attendance. The Venice Club was used for the Lunch/Social and has been to this day. The Coaches’ Clinic has become an annual event since and is attended by appx. 200 coaches each year. In an effort to use the growth of the league to benefit the membership, the Executive Board developed a “league raffle” that would benefit those members choosing to take part in it. The league raffle has become an annual event with more than 80% of members participating. On November 14th, St. Francis defeated Grafton 12-6, in the first overtime game in a AAYFL Championship game. On December 15th, the league membership approved the expansion of Waukesha Youth Football to include “A” and “B” teams from Waukesha North (Junior Northstars) and the new Waukesha West (Junior Wolverines) High School.

On January 25, 1993, the membership approved and signed the league's first official by-laws. This season also became the largest growth year in league History. Not only was expansion approved for Waukesha, but teams were added from Brookfield East (Junior Spartans), New Berlin Eisenhower (Generals), New Berlin West (Vikings), West Allis Central (Badgers), and the West Allis Hale (Wolverines). The league membership now totaled 24 organizations, fielding 71 teams, at 3 levels of play. Brookfield (Shamrocks) now became known as Brookfield Central (Junior Lancers). Mukwonago was granted permanent split-team status. A co-operative equipment purchase program was introduced to utilize the league’s growing size. The membership would now purchase league patches, footballs, and mouth guards as a league, reducing dramatically the cost for those items on a per team basis. Presently, over 5000 mouth guards and 700 footballs are purchased annually, and appx. 4000 league patches are purchased every three years. Major changes were added to the league rules, much centering on the conduct of coaches. Head coaches were required to pass a rules test administered by the Executive Board. Officials pay was increased to $24.00 for the “A”, $22.00 for the “B”, and $19.00 for a “C’ game. The AAYFL Championship on November 6th, saw Lake Country defeat Greendale 14-8. At the year end meeting in December, Deputy Commissioner Bob Kiefer and Ed Mies were re-elected. Doug Sarver (1991-1993) chose not to seek re-election. Tom Thessin (Menomonee Falls) was elected as AAYFL Secretary. On the recommendation of the Executive Board, Doug Bonk was appointed AAYFL Director of Officials.

In March of 1994, Oconomowoc (Racoons) were approved for league membership. Also approved was the request of Lake Country to expand their program to allow for “split teams” (Red and White) at all three levels. Rules changes included the requirement of all teams to have a Home and Away game jersey by the 1995 season. The Executive Board developed an officials evaluation form to be submitted by league Head Coaches. Three local Sporting Goods Companies submitted substantial shoe discount programs for the AAYFL Membership. On September 11th, the membership was informed by Commissioner Grisaffi that a member organization would be forfeiting all games in the 1994 season for violation of the league boundary rule. Member opponents were given the choice to play the scheduled games or not. Greendale defeated Grafton, 37-14, on November 12th for their 7th League Championship.

On January 8, 1995 the league was informed of the death of former Commissioner Jim Jarecki. Commissioner Grisaffi wrote the following when informing the membership of Jim’s death. “... Jim spent seven years as Commissioner and he had a big part in forming much of the foundation for the league as we know it today. The contributions Jim made to the league and the impressions he had in many of the lives he touched will be remembered for a long time to come. The closing in most of the letters I send out, “JUST FOR KIDS” was first used by Jim during his service to the league, and is dedicated to his service and now his memory...” The league experienced another growth spurt, with the addition of new programs from Germantown (Hawks), Wauwatosa East (Junior Raiders), and Wauwatosa West (Cyclones). The Menomonee Falls Jayhawks moved to Sussex, and a new Menomonee Falls (Panthers) program was approved for membership. Unfortunately, longtime member, Bayview, decided to leave the league to pursue their own interests. The membership approved a proposal from Commissioner Grisaffi, to name the league championship trophy as the “Jim Jarecki Memorial Trophy.” The Milwaukee Mustangs Arena Football Team held their first Youth Football Night with a special invitation to the AAYFL. Mustangs General Manager, Chris Vallozzi, was a former AAYFL player (Kettle Moraine). The league has grown to 27 member organizations, with 2875 players, and 88 teams at three levels of play. The Saukville Rebels celebrated 35 years of service to their community. A special presentation involving the Jarecki Family was planned for the League Championship game to commemorate Jim. The new “Jim Jarecki Memorial Trophy” was to be presented by Jim’s Wife and Children. Unfortunately, an early season snow storm caused the postponement of the game. The Jarecki’s were unable to attend the rescheduled game. On Sunday, November 12th, Lake Country defeated Greendale 6-0 on snow crusted Marquette Valley Field. Lines on the field were scraped by the feet of parents. Greendale became only the second team in league history to participate in three consecutive League Championship games.

In February 1996, the membership approved a proposal from the Expansion Committee outlining guidelines for existing team expansion, as well as new team expansion. Expansion would also be allowed in even numbers to maintain balance within the league. These guidelines ultimately would be added to the League by-laws. Cudahy (Bulldogs) and Cedar Grove-Belgium (Broncos) were approved for membership. Kettle Moraine’s request to field “split teams” was denied after receiving the lowest vote total of the three programs. The tie-breaker rule was expanded to eliminate all tie-breaker playoff games. All League Coaches are now required to be certified. A major realignment of the divisions took place, involving 7 programs. Officials pay was increased to $30.00 per game at all levels. On September 8th the league membership was informed that the AAYFL and New Berlin Eisenhower were named in a lawsuit, basically challenging the league roster boundary rules. (Ultimately the League and New Berlin Eisenhower won the case in the fall of 1997, with damages awarded for a frivolous lawsuit on the part of the plaintiff. The plaintiff would pay $500.00 to the Ronald McDonald House). Oconomowoc defeated Muskego 20-16 for the League Championship on November 2nd.

On February 9, 1997, the League members approved the membership of Kewaskum (Gridiron Indians) and Pewaukee (Junior Pirates). The league now numbered 31 member organization, fielding 104 teams at three levels of play. Commissioner Grisaffi developed a general “Participant Application Form” for voluntary use by the membership. At the Championship Game on November 1st, Sussex defeated Lake Country White by a score of 8-6. Bob Kiefer and Tom Thessin were re-elected to their positions on the Executive Board. Long time Officer Ed Mies (1991-1997) chose not to seek re-election. Chuck O’Connor (Lake Country) was elected as the South Conference Deputy Commissioner.

The 1998 season began with the expansion of the league to include a new Greenfield (Junior Hawks) program. Existing members Oconomowoc and Muskego also requested to expand their programs. Muskego received the necessary member votes and would field two teams (Black and Red) at each level. A motion by Waukesha Youth Football to make a “temporary” by-law change for the purpose of addressing Waukesha’s desire to expand their programs was denied by membership vote. Commissioner Grisaffi sent the membership and coaches a “Do we need to regulate sportsmanship?” editorial that expressed concerns of sportsmanship within the league the prior few seasons. League footballs ordered would now have the league logo and team name stamped on them. The league entered the high-tech age when Commissioner Grisaffi developed a league web site. The AAYFL was now in cyberspace. The web site and e-mail would become a major method of communication and promotion for the AAYFL and its members. A rule change was approved requiring “split teams” to divide their rosters by the third Saturday after the league practice start date. Brookfield Central defeated two-time defending South Champion, Lake Country White, 8-0 on November 7th.

The 1999 season showed continued growth, with the addition of new members from Brown Deer (Falcons), Burlington (Spiders), and East Troy (Titans). Oconomowoc’s request to field “split teams” (Gold and Purple) at each level was also approved. The League had grown to 35 organizations, however, in April Waukesha Youth Football withdrew from the league to pursue their own interests. A mid-term election saw Chuck Race (Grafton) elected to replace Bob Kiefer (1991-1999) as the North Conference Deputy Commissioner. Bob had been named the new Defensive Coordinator at Grafton High School. In July a by-law amendment was approved, persons outside the league membership were eligible to hold Executive Board positions. CNI Newspapers sponsored the printing of the league directory. For the first time in league history, two teams, Germantown and Kewaskum, ended the season undefeated in the same division. The league tie-breaker procedure called for Kewaskum to represent the Northeast Division in the Championship Playoffs. On November 6th, before a crowd estimated between “700 and 10,000”, Kewaskum defeated Cudahy by a 19-6 score. For the first time, a major media outlet attended the game. Milwaukee Television Station, TV 58, broadcast portions of the Championship game the following week. A major by-law amendment was approved at the year end meeting. The Executive Board would expand to seven members, changing the two Conference Deputy Commissioners’ positions into four “Division Deputy Commissioners”. Incumbents Tom Thessin (Secretary) and Chuck Race (Northeast Deputy Commissioner) were re-elected. Chuck O’Connor (1997-1999) chose not to seek re-election. Brad Volkmann (Lake Country), Joe Schell (New Berlin Eisenhower), and Bruce Mohns (Oconomowoc) were elected to fill the Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest Deputy Commissioners respectively. A proposal by Commissioner Grisaffi seeking a $25.00 per site stipend for league Official Crew Chiefs was approved for the 2000 season. Crew Chiefs fulfilling certain requirements would be eligible for the stipend.

The 21st century in the league began on February 6, 2000 with the addition of new members from Delavan (Red Devils) and West Bend (East Suns) and (West Spartans). Unfortunately, another prospective program was denied membership based on receiving the lowest vote total and a requirement in the by-laws to expand to maintain even numbers of teams in the league. Recently elected Northwest Deputy Commissioner, Brad Volkmann, resigned his position on the Executive Board. Al Wenzel (Pewaukee) was elected to fill the remainder of the term. The league membership approved the official recognition of a “D” level, for 5th grade and under. Fourteen “D teams” would be fielded by the membership the first year. Officials pay per game was increased to $35.00. Craig Benzel of the Green Bay Packers presented a proposal to the league membership outlining a new youth football initiative by the Packers. Several programs and activities would be provided to the WIAAYFL to support youth football. Among those activities, “Junior Training Camps” and a “Youth Football Festival” ultimately became the only programs the Packers provided. Some in the league still joke about “waiting for the Gatorade coolers and bottles”. The league received an invitation from Adams USA, a top-quality football equipment manufacturer, inviting members to visit them. On May 18-21, Adams USA flew 28 representatives to Tennessee to visit them in Cookeville. The visit included a great steak welcome dinner, facility tours of their operations and production, discussion on football equipment, golf, and a visit to “Cotton Eye Joe's”. However, many consider the final event of lake touring on two 80-foot houseboats, tied together with another great steak dinner, as the highlight of the trip. Garry McNabb, “Captain” Ray Abel, and the rest of our friends at Adams USA have been annual supporters of the WIAAYFL and provide sponsorship on our league web site. Grafton celebrated their 25th Anniversary of service to their community. The league championship was between Saukville and Wauwatosa East at Marquette Valley field, on November 4th. Wauwatosa East won by a score of 30-21.

The 2001 season began with the grievous news of the death of Chuck Race (1991-2001), Northeast Deputy Commissioner. The funeral for Chuck was attended by hundreds of former players, parents, friends, and WIAAYFL members. Memorials were sent by the league and its members. A moment of silence was held at the first league meeting in honor of Chuck and his service to the league. The Executive Board appointed George Papacristou (Thiensville-Mequon) to fill the remaining portion of the Northeast Deputy Commissioner term. Muskego decided to return to fielding only one team at each level. Membership was approved for Whitefish Bay (Junior Blue Dukes). Also approved for “Associate Membership” was WIYFL-Waukesha, a 5th and 6th grade program in the Waukesha School District. The league has grown to 37 member organizations, fielding 144 teams at 4 levels of play. The WIAAYFL celebrated its 25th season. A “Commemorative Logo” was placed on the league web site and a special decal of the league logo was developed for the membership helmets. The league approved the formation of a Coaches/Players Conduct Committee and charged them to develop written principals of conduct. The membership approved a Coaches Conduct policy based on one developed by Thiensville-Mequon. The policy was posted on the league web site and in the league directory. No history can be written without mentioning the events of September 11, 2001. All in the country were effected by the murderous attacks of this day. Commissioner Grisaffi wrote the following to the membership: “I've been asked whether or not this Saturdays games will be played... While Football is not as high a priority as some may think. I believe it is important that we not let these terrorist murderers gain any more "victories" by disrupting even more of our way of life... Our games will go on, just as our way of life will go on...” The games played on September 13th included moments of silence to honor those who were killed in the attacks. It was appropriate that two of the oldest member programs in the league played for the 25th WIAAYFL Championship. Thiensville-Mequon returned to the Championship Game for the first time since 1984. However, Muskego defeated them 7-0, on November 3rd. It was Muskego’s first championship since 1979.

At the February 4, 2002 league meeting Commissioner Grisaffi informed the membership that Kettle Moraine had withdrawn from the WIAAYFL. Also on this date, the Nicolet (Squires) were approved for membership. In June, former WIAAYFL player Jason Smith (St. Francis), representing Milwaukee Television Stations, WB 18 and UPN 24, presented a proposal to place the WIAAYFL Championship game on television. The membership felt it was cost prohibitive and something that could not be supported at this time. A Players’ Conduct policy was approved and would be added to the league web site and directory. For the first time in league history, every member in the league fielded a team at the “A”, “B”, and “C” levels. A late season controversy developed with the identification of an ineligible player on a playoff team. The Executive Board’s decision to forfeit all games, the ineligible player was involved in, was overturned on appeal. Future guidelines would be established outlining the penalties involved with using an ineligible player. At the WIAAYFL Championship game on November 1st, Wauwatosa East defeated Brookfield Central, 8-6, for their second championship in three years. It was only the third time that an organization won multiple championships since 1990.

The 2003 season became the first season of no new member growth in the league since 1989. However, many members were now fielding teams at all four levels of play. The 39 league organizations would field 158 teams, involving appx. 5100 players, 550 coaches, and 1300 cheerleaders. Major realignment involving 7 organizations took place to better represent the alignment at the High School level and reduce travel time for all members. Officials pay for the 2003 season would be raised to $40.00 per game. Major rule revisions were approved by the membership, including severe penalties for weight and roster violations, a requirement to have school verification forms for any player on a roster that resides out-of-district, and the requirement that all coaches be certified prior to the start of practice. The 2003 championship game on November 1st was won by Saukville over East Troy by a score of 14-0. It marked the first championship for Saukville since 1981. Tom Thessin (1993-2003) “retired” as WIAAYFL Secretary and was presented a plague for his long service to the WIAAYFL. Mike Brewer (Menomonee Falls) was elected as the new WIAAYFL Secretary.

The 2004 football season of the WIAAYFL started with the addition of new members Milwaukee Custer (Junior Cougars) and Slinger (Owls), the WIAAYFL fielded 164 teams at 4 levels of play (5th through 8th grade), representing 41 member organizations. The number of players involved was appx. 5500, along with 1400 cheerleaders and well over 550 coaches. Long time member Menomonee Falls asked the membership to allow them to field a team at the “A” level only, due to the formation of a competing organization in their community. The membership approved the request, with the understanding that it be for this season only. On November 6th Brookfield Central defeated New Berlin Eisenhower, 8-0, in the league’s first double overtime game. The crowd at the game was one of the largest in league history. At the year end meeting in December, Menomonee Falls informed the membership that they would be disbanding the program.

The 2005 football season began with a addition to the league by-laws to allow for single season expansion at the “A” and “B” levels. This would allow members with large team numbers to split and field an additional team, as long as even numbers were maintained at each level. Four members took advantage of the new by-law to field additional teams. The annual league coaches clinic ended with the sad news that our final speaker, Joe Mostofi (UW-Oshkosh Assistant Coach), was killed in a car accident on his way to the clinic. Joe was a highly motivated young man, dedicated to youth, who loved teaching the game of football. Rules concerning roster waiver requests for players were redefined and approved by the membership. Gary Montgomery, Adams USA, spoke to the membership concerning helmets and shoulder pads at our July meeting. Adams USA also provided for the membership helmet fitting books. The season went well except for a few events which lead to the permanent suspension of two coaches and a spectator. On November 5th, Germantown defeated New Berlin Eisenhower, 16-14 for the 29th league championship. Germantown was an excellent host, and prepared the field with field painting identifying the participants and league. A large spectator crowd of fans, officials, league players, and coaches saw a great game of competition and sportsmanship. Northeast Deputy Commissioner, George Papachristou (2001-2005), regrettably stepped down after the season. Larry Donohue, Saukville, was elected as the new Northeast Deputy Commissioner at the year end meeting in December.

The 2006 season was a celebration of the WIAAYFL’s 30th Anniversary season, and once again showed continued growth in total players and teams fielded. With 174 teams, 750 coaches, and appx. 6600 players, much of the growth this season occurred at the “B”, “C”, and “D” levels. The season was one of the most competitive in league history, with many of the Division races coming down to the final week of the season. Both Conference Championships were decided by a touchdown or less. The League Championship Game was a rematch of week one between Lake Country Red and Franklin where Franklin defeated Lake Country Red 18-0. However in the rematch and an exciting Jim Jarecki Memorial Championship game, Lake Country Red defeated Franklin, 22-8. On December 5th, Jim Grisaffi (1990-2006), AAYFL Commissioner for the past 17 seasons stepped down as Commissioner. Long time League Treasurer, Dan Braden was elected as the new Commissioner. Al Wenzel, former Northwest Deputy Commissioner was elected to the League Treasurer position. Craig Vertz was re-elected to the Southwest Deputy Commissioner. New to the Executive Board is Bill Treacy, Brookfield East, elected as the Northwest Deputy Commissioner. Jim Grisaffi will continue to handle duties in the AAYFL Office.

As the 2007 season began, the Executive Board was informed by Al Wenzel (2000-2006), AAYFL Treasurer elect, that he was stepping down from the treasurer position. The Executive Board asked Jim Grisaffi to fill the Treasurer position on an interim basis. At the February 12th meeting, the membership elected Jim Grisaffi as League Treasurer, to fill the remainder of the term. The league membership fielded 184 teams during the season with just over 6800 players, 1900 cheerleaders, and 870 coaches. At the year end meeting, Bill Treacy, Larry Donohue, and Mike Brewer were re-elected to their respective Executive Board positions. The Jim Jarecki Memorial Championship was held on November 4th. The Muskego Junior Warriors defeated the Cedarburg Colts, 13-12 at Cedarburg High School in one of the most exciting games in league history.

The 2008 AAYFL season saw continued growth in the league with close to 7000 players participating on 193 teams. There were over 1000 coaches for the first time and over 1900 cheerleaders. The season was one of the most competitive in the league as most divisions were decided in the final week before the playoffs. On November 1st At Karcher Middle School in Burlington, The Burlington Spiders defeated the Germantown Hawks (Blue) in double overtime by a score of 20-14. At the year end meeting Dan Braden, Jim Grisaffi, and Bill Treacy were reelected to their posts on the Executive Board. Steve Collins, East Troy, was elected as Southwest Deputy Commissioner replacing Craig Vertz (2004-2008) who chose not to run for another term.

The 2009 AAYFL season showed another record number of teams competing as the league fielded 198 teams at the four levels of play. The season started with a bit of controversy when the league denied the use of a tinted face guard shield in accordance with NFHS and WIAA rules. The controversy started by the parents of a player who took their disagreement in the rule to the media. It became national news for first few weeks of the season. Ultimately the league held its ground and offered accommodations to the family which would be within the rules. As the season progressed to the championship, two first time championship game teams battled in Whitefish Bay for the Jim Jarecki Memorial Trophy. The New Berlin West Vikings defeated the Whitefish Bay Junior Blue Dukes, 16-15 on November 7th. It was a well played game before a large crowd estimated at 2000 spectators.

The 2010 AAYFL season continued to add teams on the field in the league as 202 teams participated at the four levels of play. For the league it was a very competitive season as the representative for each of the four Divisions came down to the final weeks. Ultimately the Championship representatives were all multiple Division winners from the past. The North and South Conference Championships were tremendous competitions with the winners determined in the last minute of the game. In the Jim Jarecki Memorial Championship Greendale won its 8th AAYFL Championship by defeating Wauwatosa East, 28 to 17. Greendale won its first Championship since 1994. There were a number of changes in the leadership of the AAYFL as Steve Collins (2009-2010) and Bill Treacy (2007-2010) decided not to seek reelection as Southwest and Northwest Deputy Commissioners respectively. Bill Treacy was selected to take over as Office Manager of the league, as Jim Grisaffi wanted to reduce the amount of his workload, and only do a select number of tasks for the league. Newly elected to the Executive Board as Northwest Deputy Commissioner, Steve Frank, Oshkosh and South west Deputy Commissioner, Kevin Kurtz, Oconomowoc.

The 35th season of the AAYFL saw the amount of teams on the field increase again, as 206 teams participated at the four levels of play. It was also a year that saw Milwaukee Eastside have their membership suspended due to a lack of ability to field enough players while on probationary status from the previous season’s forfeits. Long-time member Random Lake saw its numbers decline to the point that they only fielded a 5th grade team. As far as the rest of the league, it was hotly contested once again as the representative for each of the four Divisions came down to the final two weeks. Ultimately, the Championship representatives were all Divisional Champions from years past. For the first time, the North and South Conference Championships were split between Saturday and Sunday due to the changes in the high school schedule. The 35 th Jim Jarecki Memorial Championship game was not only memorable for its drama, but it also had a first: Two teams from the same organization played against one another. Lake Country White defeated Lake Country Red 16 to 8 in overtime, which was only the fourth overtime Championship game in league history. There were a few of changes in the leadership of the AAYFL as Jim Grisaffi resigned from the Treasurer post for personal reasons. Jim was replaced by Walt Buckhanan, Milwaukee Custer.

The 36th season of the AAYFL began with the departure of long-time member Random Lake to a league comprised of teams of similar size, as well as Milwaukee Custer to a new Milwaukee City Conference. Members Wauwatosa East and Brookfield Central went through enrollment issues, forcing each to contract a team on the 7th and 8th grade levels respectively for the season. The Southeast Division underwent drastic changes this season, as Greendale and New Berlin Eisenhower were flipped to Group I and Milwaukee Hamilton and Whitnall went to Group II. The move was made for competitive balance and was met by widespread praise. On the Executive Board level, as the Treasurer position was vacated by Walt Buckhanan. Ray Baran (Germantown) accepted the position on an interim basis. On the field of play, Lake Country White won their fourth consecutive Southwest Division title, and West Bend West won their first Divisional and Conference crown as well, one by a missed PAT and one in the final seven seconds. The 36 th Jim Jarecki Memorial Championship game was won by the New Berlin Eisenhower Generals 37-16 over the West Bend West Spartans.