Why it was ‘personal’ for Wisconsin AD to hold WIAA tournaments at Badgers locations McIntosh, Chris

When Chris McIntosh took over as the athletic director (AD) for the University of Wisconsin in 2021, he inherited a rich tradition of success within the athletics department. Under his leadership, Wisconsin athletics has aimed to continue its legacy of excellence, while also making efforts to positively impact the local community and high school athletics. One of the most significant steps in that direction was the decision to host Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) tournaments at Wisconsin Badgers facilities. For McIntosh, this move was not just a professional decision; it was deeply personal, rooted in his own experiences as a former Badger athlete and his belief in the importance of fostering connections between the university and the broader Wisconsin community.

This article will explore why McIntosh’s decision to hold WIAA tournaments at Wisconsin Badgers locations was so personal, examining the relationship between the university and the state’s high school athletics community, McIntosh’s own background and experiences as a former student-athlete, and the long-term benefits for both the university and high school sports in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Athletic Tradition: A Strong Connection to the Community

The University of Wisconsin, especially its athletic program, has long been a symbol of pride for the state. The Badgers, across multiple sports, have achieved national recognition and success. However, this success has not been limited to the university alone; it extends to the high school level as well. High school sports play a crucial role in the culture of Wisconsin, with many student-athletes aspiring to reach the level of competition that is embodied by the Badgers.

The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) oversees high school athletics across the state, and its tournaments are the pinnacle of achievement for student-athletes in a variety of sports. The WIAA tournaments are a major part of the state’s sports culture, and hosting these events at prominent venues like those of the University of Wisconsin offers a unique opportunity for high school athletes to showcase their skills in front of larger crowds in high-profile settings.

For McIntosh, as a former Badger athlete himself, the decision to involve the university in these tournaments was an acknowledgment of the integral role Wisconsin athletics plays in the lives of young athletes. By bringing these tournaments to Wisconsin’s iconic athletic venues, McIntosh not only helped elevate the profile of the WIAA events but also provided a platform for young athletes to dream big—aspiring to one day play on the same fields, courts, and arenas as the Badgers.

McIntosh’s Personal Connection to Wisconsin Athletics

Chris McIntosh’s decision to host the WIAA tournaments at Badger venues is personal for several reasons, not the least of which is his own history with the University of Wisconsin. McIntosh himself was a standout athlete at Wisconsin, earning recognition as a star offensive tackle on the Badgers football team from 1999 to 2002. His leadership on the field helped Wisconsin achieve several notable successes, including a Big Ten championship and a victory in the 2000 Rose Bowl. After his time at Wisconsin, McIntosh went on to play professional football in the NFL, which further reinforced the importance of Wisconsin athletics in shaping his career.

McIntosh’s journey from a high school athlete to a Wisconsin Badger, and later an NFL player, shaped his understanding of the impact that college athletics can have on an athlete’s life. His connection to Wisconsin is deeply rooted, and his understanding of what it means to represent the university gives him a unique perspective on the importance of connecting with the state’s high school athletes. McIntosh knows firsthand the significance of playing at the highest level and the potential it holds for personal growth, athletic development, and future success.

As athletic director, McIntosh is committed to ensuring that the university’s impact on the state of Wisconsin extends beyond just its own student-athletes. By hosting WIAA tournaments at Badger facilities, McIntosh is able to give young athletes an experience that mirrors his own journey—an experience where they can dream of reaching new heights and seeing their own potential realized.

Elevating the WIAA Tournaments and Providing Opportunities

The move to host the WIAA tournaments at Wisconsin’s premier athletic venues—such as Camp Randall Stadium, the Kohl Center, and the Wisconsin Field House—is part of McIntosh’s broader strategy to elevate the profile of high school sports in the state. For many student-athletes, the opportunity to play on such iconic fields or courts is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It allows them to compete at a level of visibility and prestige that can inspire them to continue pursuing their athletic dreams.

For McIntosh, this was not just about providing a great experience for athletes—it was also about offering the students, coaches, and families a chance to witness what is possible when the university and the community come together. High school athletes often aspire to play at the collegiate level, and being able to compete at a major Division I facility allows them to visualize their future at Wisconsin or another university.

Beyond that, the decision to host WIAA tournaments at Wisconsin facilities also provides tangible benefits for the athletes. It exposes them to top-tier resources, from locker rooms and training facilities to access to top-notch medical and athletic support. The prestige of competing at these venues also enhances the overall experience, creating lasting memories for athletes, fans, and families alike. For many, the chance to play in the Kohl Center or Camp Randall Stadium is an unforgettable moment that may set the stage for future goals and aspirations.

Fostering a Stronger Relationship Between Wisconsin Athletics and High School Sports

As AD, McIntosh’s decision to host WIAA tournaments also strengthens the relationship between Wisconsin athletics and the state’s high school sports community. Traditionally, universities and high school sports organizations have operated somewhat separately, with little interaction outside of recruitment and outreach. McIntosh’s initiative, however, creates a partnership that fosters a stronger sense of community and continuity.

Wisconsin football, basketball, and other athletic programs regularly recruit top talent from high schools across the state. But by hosting high school tournaments on their own campuses, the Badgers are providing these athletes with a deeper connection to the university. High school athletes are not just seen as potential recruits—they are also valued members of the community. The idea of giving back to the community, providing young athletes with an unforgettable experience, is at the heart of McIntosh’s vision for Wisconsin athletics.

This partnership also strengthens Wisconsin’s identity as a state that values and supports high school athletics. By opening the doors of Badger facilities to high school teams, McIntosh is helping to cultivate a sense of pride and connection among the next generation of athletes. It’s an effort to nurture talent and encourage the state’s young athletes to aim higher, while also giving them the tools they need to succeed.

Long-Term Impact on Wisconsin’s Athletics Program

In addition to benefiting the WIAA tournaments and high school athletes, McIntosh’s decision has long-term implications for Wisconsin athletics. One of the challenges that many college athletics programs face is maintaining strong ties to their local communities while also competing at the national level. By creating an environment where local high school athletes are welcomed onto the Badgers’ campuses, McIntosh is not only making a positive impact on the athletes themselves but also on the future of Wisconsin’s own sports programs.

Hosting the WIAA tournaments at Badger venues serves as an indirect recruiting tool for Wisconsin. It gives prospective athletes a firsthand look at the facilities, the atmosphere, and the level of competition that they can expect to experience should they decide to play at Wisconsin. More importantly, it highlights the Badgers’ commitment to Wisconsin student-athletes. Wisconsin fans, especially those with children or relatives participating in the tournaments, will be exposed to the program in a different way, strengthening the bond between the university and the broader community.

Moreover, hosting these tournaments helps cultivate a sense of pride within the state, and for Wisconsin fans, it reinforces the idea that the Badgers are an integral part of the state’s athletic identity. When local high school athletes feel that they are part of the larger Badger community, they are more likely to take pride in representing the state and, if given the opportunity, to play for Wisconsin.