West Bend, Wi – As the University of Wisconsin-Washington County (UW-WC) prepares to close its doors permanently, the athletic community is coming together for one last celebration. Coach Deb Butschlick, who had been a part of UW-WC for 33 years, is spearheading an event called “The Last Shot” to give former student athletes a chance to reunite, reminisce, and give all the trophies and plaques a new permanent home.
The event, scheduled for a Friday night in April, aims to bring together former student athletes from as far back as 1968.
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“I got swamped with calls, emails, texts, Snapchats,” said Coach Butschlick, reflecting on the community’s desire to see the school one last time. “We want to be able to see it and go through it one more time.”
“The Last Shot” will feature a buffet lunch, door prizes, and tours of the school. The unique aspect of the event is the door prizes, which will include trophies from past athletic achievements.
“Everything’s going to get thrown out, so that’s why this is my way to try to save history,” said Butschlick. “If they want a specific trophy, and they get their number picked, they’ll get a trophy.”
Former coaches expected to attend, include Steve Murphy, Tom Brigham, Mitch Burry, John Minz and others. The event is not a fundraiser but aims to cover expenses.
“The Last Shot” is an adult-only event, where former student athletes are welcome to bring a guest. Attendees can expect a nostalgic trip down memory lane with hundreds of pictures and trophies on display. The event will have a cash bar and opportunities to reconnect with old teammates and coaches.
For more information and to purchase tickets, former student athletes can visit the Washington Foundation website, where details about the event will be posted.
Butschlick said hundreds of pictures, banners, trophies will be laid out and the goal is to give them a new and permanent home.
More information will be posted HERE as details become available.
FANTASTIC idea!
Hopefully UWWC does a final one last celebration for the college as a whole.
Haters and losers called it “Cowpie”, but believe me, the quality of the school is top-notch!
I went there AMs for a year & completed a #of pre-reqs in 1986 when my son was 4 & my grandma watched him @ her house on 18th Ave. during my classes. Transferred to Stritch to finish my BA…& they closed their doors last year😢.Got my Master’s from Marian College. Taught grade school for 25 yrs., retired in 2016 to be my youngest granddaughter’s Nanny, who’s Dad was the 4yr old my grandma watched in 1986!❤️
Any info yet on the date of The Last Shot event? Any plans to digitize photos or have a process for out of state alumni student athletes to be involved in being able to obtain trophies or see photos?
I should get more info shortly. Will post immediately and passing along your ideas.