Wittenberg-Birnamwood girls rout Menominee Nation 76-35 in dominant outing

Wittenberg-Birnamwood pulled away midway through the first half and rolled to a 76-35 victory over Menominee Nation, a lopsided result that showcased two standout performances and raised questions about visibility for Tribal school athletes. Rory Salvesen led the Chargers with 30 points and seven steals; she also had three rebounds and five assists. Melaina Granquist posted a double-double with 27 points and 11 rebounds while adding six steals.

Harper Rogowski paced the Charger distribution with six assists and added seven points. Ava Brei chipped in four rebounds and two steals, and Brie Ladika contributed three assists. The Chargers’ balanced attack and defensive pressure turned a competitive opening into a decisive run by mid first half, producing the final margin.

The Menominee Nation Eagles were held to 35 points in the box score available, but individual Menominee Nation statistics were not included in the report, a gap that limits a fuller accounting of player contributions and makes it harder for families and recruiters to follow Tribal athletes. That lack of detail is a reminder that consistent coverage of local Indigenous schools matters for recognition, recruitment and community pride.

The scoreboard also listed several other area results. Valley Christian beat Marion/Tigerton 77-43; Caitlin Keller scored 25 for Marion/Tigerton, Davina Crum added eight points with six rebounds and five steals, Julia James had seven points, and Madeline Wudstrack contributed four rebounds and three assists. Suri Beilfuss led the Valley Christian Mustangs with 11 rebounds. Sheboygan North outscored Pulaski 9-6 in overtime to prevail 39-36. Other scores included Bonduel 54, Iola-Scandinavia 34; Gillett 54, Gibraltar 22; Gillett 49, Niagara 44; and Suring 59, Wausaukee 29.

For Menominee County residents, high school games are about more than wins and losses. Regular participation in sports supports physical activity, mental health and social cohesion for young people. Local health providers and school leaders often point to athletics as a place where healthy habits start and where community support can reduce risk factors tied to inactivity and social isolation. Ensuring equal access to facilities, training and media coverage helps advance health equity and keeps athletes connected to services ranging from school-based counseling to physical therapy.

The scoreboard’s multiple entries for Gillett suggest a need to confirm schedules and opponents when tracking standings and travel for weekend play. For now, Wittenberg-Birnamwood’s Chargers leave a clear mark on the winter slate with dominant defense and big scoring nights from Salvesen and Granquist. Readers seeking fuller detail on Menominee Nation player stats, coaches’ perspectives or game location can expect follow-up reporting as local teams and schools provide box scores and postgame comments in the coming days.