#64 Linebacker / Guard: 1983-84
Kraig was a starter at guard and linebacker during the 1983 and 1984 seasons. He also
long-snapped, and was on all of the special teams during his varsity career. Longtime assistant
coach Al Bauman called Kraig one of the best hitters and most instinctive defensive players he
had ever seen on the football field. He was a huge part of the 1983 team that challenged
eventual state champion Platteville for the conference title. Kraig ranks #16 all time in tackles
with 225, added 3 career interceptions, and blocked 8 punts while playing in an ultra-talented
Southern 8 conference. Kraig was a second team all Southern 8 offensive lineman as a junior
in 1983, and a first team selection at linebacker as a senior in 1984, where he scored three
defensive touchdowns in conference play. In addition, Kraig was a 1st team all area selection
for the Wisconsin State Journal, and was a WFCA all district selection in 1984.
Kraig was a 3 year letter winner in football and baseball, and a 4 year letter winner in
wrestling. He was selected for the Dodgeville Chronicle Sportsmanship Award in 1983 and
1984, and was the American Legion Outstanding Athlete in 1985. Kraig is also a member of the
Mineral Point Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Kraig has fond memories of playing for coach Ron Murphy, and coach Floyd Spoor - both of
whom taught him character, respect, and encouraged him to always rise to the challenge. He
remembers the phrase, "Go make something happen!" being shouted from the sidelines, and
he and his teammates often did. Kraig remembers the '83 team being tough, focused, and hard
working. They seemed to bring out the best in each other. Kraig stated, "Running out with
those boys was pure adrenaline and that is why football was my favorite sport. I loved the
game. There is nothing better than football."
Kraig claims that his greatest accomplishment was marrying his wife, Bren and raising their
two beautiful daughters, Sierra & Mariah, that they raised here in Mineral Point. They now are
fortunate to have two great son-in-laws, Kendrick & Mitchell that decided to have their 6
grandchildren all raised as Pointers, as well.
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1985 Class C State Wrestling Champion - 167#
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