Sault Ste. Marie has claimed the title of High School Bowl champion on WNMU-TV, defeating Ironwood with a score of 320-120 in the final match of the 2025–26 season.
The championship game, which aired April 11, followed weeks of competing schools from across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Northern Wisconsin—read more about the teams’ road to the finals in our previous post: High School Bowl Championship: Sault Ste. Marie vs. Ironwood.
A Strong Championship Run
Sault Ste. Marie earned its place in the final round with an impressive run through the tournament, defeating North Central, Marquette, Brimley, and Negaunee. In the championship match, the team demonstrated strong teamwork and quick thinking to secure the win.
Ironwood also had an outstanding season, advancing to the finals after victories over Rudyard, Escanaba, Jeffers, and Manistique. Both teams showed dedication and academic excellence throughout the competition.
Celebrating Student Achievement
Now in its 47th season, High School Bowl continues to highlight the knowledge and achievements of high school students across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Northern Wisconsin. As this year’s champions, Sault Ste. Marie will receive a $2,500 scholarship, while Ironwood will receive $1,500 as runner-up.
High School Bowl is one of several locally produced programs from WNMU-TV that highlight the people and stories of our region Learn more about our local productions.
Dave Goldsmith Scholarship Awarded to Nathaniel Sommers
Sault Ste. Marie’s Nathaniel Sommers has been named this year’s recipient of the Dave Goldsmith Scholarship, awarded annually to an outstanding senior player. The scholarship honors longtime host Dave Goldsmith, who led the program for 24 years, and was established by his family following his passing in 2002.
Nathaniel, a four-year member of the High School Bowl team, played a key role in Sault Ste. Marie’s championship run this season. He will receive a $1,500 scholarship to support his college education. Viewers can also hear Nathaniel discuss his future plans in the Year in Review episode following the championship.
Watch the Championship and Season Highlights
If you missed the final match, you can still watch the High School Bowl championship and the special Year in Review episode online. The recap, hosted by Jim Koski, features behind-the-scenes moments, interviews with both finalist teams, and highlights from throughout the season.
Watch online anytime at:
👉 wnmuvideo.nmu.edu
Program Support
High School Bowl is made possible through the generous support of the Donald & Audrey Anderson Foundation and Island Resort & Casino.
Local support is provided by 14 Upper Peninsula credit unions: TruNorth Federal Credit Union, Limestone Federal Credit Union, Tahquamenon Area Credit Union, Embers Credit Union, Soo Co-op Credit Union, Marquette Community Federal Credit Union, Gogebic County Federal Credit Union, Peninsula Federal Credit Union, U.P. State Credit Union, Breakwater Federal Credit Union, Settlers Federal Credit Union, Northern Lights Community Federal Credit Union, Great Lakes First Federal Credit Union, and Baraga County Federal Credit Union.
Additional support is provided by Vincent and Nora Petrucelli, in partnership with the Regional Educational Service Agencies and Intermediate School Districts of the Upper Peninsula.
WNMU-TV is a member-supported public broadcasting service of Northern Michigan University and is licensed to the NMU Board of Trustees.
Congratulations to Sault Ste. Marie and Ironwood
WNMU-TV congratulates Sault Ste. Marie on their championship win and recognizes both teams for their hard work, sportsmanship, and dedication throughout the season. Thank you to all participating schools, students, coaches, and viewers who made this season of High School Bowl a success. Remember, nothing you learn is ever wasted!
Programs like High School Bowl are made possible through viewer support. Consider making a contribution to help keep local programming strong in the Upper Peninsula.
Have questions about High School Bowl or WNMU-TV programming? Contact us—we’d love to hear from you.
