Sparta’s Dow named coach of the week by Packers

He’s done what no other coach in the history of Sparta high school history has done. He’s also made an improbable run through the playoffs.

Now, Sparta head coach Adam Dow has been named Coach of the Week by the Green Bay Packers.

Dow’s team has won twice in the WIAA playoffs this season against much higher-seeded opponents.

That, and the Spartans have never won a playoff game. Ever.

Dow’s team entered the playoffs at 4-5 on the year. The team is coming off a 33-14 drubbing of the No. 3 seed New Richmond. That victory came a week after knocking off No. 2 seed, Ashland on the road. The Spartans will travel to No. 1 seeded Rice Lake on Friday to take on the reigning Division 3 state football champions.

Dow gives plenty of credit to the whole football program for its late season success. “This is an award for the kids, this is an award for the rest of the coaching staff and ultimately, this is an award for the community,” Dow said upon receiving the award from the Packers.

As part of the award, Sparta will receive a $2,000 donation to its football program from the Packers, Jack Link’s Protein Snacks and the NFL Foundation.