On January 4, 2026, the University of Wisconsin–River Falls Falcons made history by winning their first-ever NCAA Division III Football Championship with a hard-fought 24-14 victory over the defending champions, North Central College. The championship game, known as the Stagg Bowl, took place at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, and was the culmination of an unforgettable season for the Falcons. This victory marked a major milestone for the program and solidified the team’s place in Division III football history.
The game started off on a challenging note for Wisconsin–River Falls, as they found themselves trailing early against the powerful North Central College team. The defending champions quickly took control of the game, putting the Falcons on the back foot. However, Wisconsin–River Falls refused to back down and mounted an impressive comeback that captivated the audience and showcased the team’s resilience and determination. Over the course of the game, the Falcons scored 21 unanswered points, shifting the momentum and ultimately securing their first national title.
One of the key players in this victory was senior quarterback Kaleb Blaha, whose leadership and poise were instrumental in his team’s comeback. Blaha played a pivotal role in the Falcons’ offensive surge, contributing multiple touchdowns and guiding his team through some tough moments. His performance on the field demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes were highest. His precise throws and strong decision-making helped keep the offense moving forward, and his leadership served as an inspiration to his teammates, who rallied around him throughout the game.
Read Also: https://socaljournal.com/holiday-bowl-at-snapdragon-stadium-a-thrilling-college-football-showdown/
The 2026 Stagg Bowl was more than just a thrilling football game; it was a testament to the hard work, grit, and teamwork that defined the Falcons’ season. Their victory was not only a historic achievement for the football program but also a defining moment for the entire University of Wisconsin–River Falls. For students, faculty, alumni, and fans, the championship win brought a renewed sense of pride and excitement to the campus. The Falcons’ success provided a boost to the university’s athletic programs and raised its profile in the world of college football.
As the final whistle blew and the Falcons were crowned national champions, the celebration erupted. The campus, which had supported the team throughout the season, was alive with excitement and pride. This victory was especially meaningful for the players and coaching staff, who had dedicated themselves to the pursuit of excellence, and it marked a culmination of years of hard work, effort, and growth. The championship is expected to have a lasting impact, both on the football program and on the university as a whole, fostering a sense of community and setting the stage for future success.
For Wisconsin–River Falls, this championship win is not only a landmark achievement in their sports history but also a symbol of the power of perseverance. The Falcons had to overcome adversity, including a slow start in the game, and they responded with resilience, teamwork, and an unwavering belief in their ability to succeed. Their victory serves as an inspiration to student-athletes across the country, showing that with dedication and teamwork, even the biggest challenges can be overcome.
The 2026 Division III football season will forever be remembered for this historic championship, and Wisconsin–River Falls will continue to celebrate their triumph for years to come. The Falcons’ journey to victory serves as a reminder of the excitement and unpredictability of college football, where every game can lead to a moment of greatness. For the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, the Stagg Bowl victory marks the beginning of a new chapter in their athletic history, one filled with the promise of even greater accomplishments to come.
