News Summary

Milwaukee lost a cherished figure in high school basketball, Jerry Petitgoue, who passed away at 84. As the winningest coach in Wisconsin history, his legacy includes over 1,000 wins and numerous championships. Petitgoue’s impact on players and the basketball community is profound, remembered for his dedication and love for the sport, as well as his wisdom. Tributes from former players and coaches highlight his remarkable influence, ensuring his memory will endure in the hearts of many.

Milwaukee Mourns the Loss of a Legend: Jerry Petitgoue Passes Away at 84

A dark cloud has settled over Milwaukee as the community remembers Jerry Petitgoue, a cherished figure in the world of high school basketball. The legendary coach of Cuba City High School, Petitgoue passed away on June 7 at the age of 84, leaving behind an incredible legacy and countless friends, students, and players who admired and loved him. His son, Mark Petitgoue, shared the news on social media, marking the end of an era for a man who dedicated his life to the sport.

The Coach with an Unbeatable Legacy

Retiring with an astonishing record of 1,027 wins and 249 losses, Petitgoue is recognized as the winningest coach in the history of Wisconsin high school basketball. His fifty-two years spent coaching in Cuba City—a small, tight-knit town in southwest Wisconsin—are a testament to his unwavering commitment and passion for the game. More than 300 wins ahead of any other boys’ coach in Wisconsin, his remarkable tally is unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon.

A Trailblazer in Championships

Through the decades, Petitgoue led his teams to an impressive 29 conference championships and made 12 appearances in the WIAA state tournament. His teams claimed WIAA state championships in 1981, 1991, and 1998. His most recent accolade came in 2020 when he was recognized as one of the coaches of the year by the National Federation of State High School Associations after his squad went undefeated with a perfect record of 25-0.

A Heart Beyond the Court

Filled with profound wisdom, Petitgoue often spoke about wanting to be remembered as a good person who strived to help others. Raised in Galena, Illinois, he attended the University of Dubuque in Iowa before setting off on his remarkable coaching journey. After a brief coaching stint in Gratiot, Wisconsin, he found his home in Cuba City, where he contemplated leaving on two occasions but ultimately chose to stay, recognizing the potential in the players he coached.

The Dedication That Defined Him

Throughout his career, Petitgoue’s commitment shone brightly. His former players often recall his dedication, noting that he would go above and beyond—sending instructional videos late into the night to help them improve their skills. Even after retiring from classroom teaching two decades before he stepped away from coaching, his passion for guiding young athletes never waned. He developed a simple yet effective set of principles known as Petitgoue’s P’s: priority, purpose, passion, pride, and preparation, which he instilled in his players.

Involvement with Basketball Associations

Beyond the court at Cuba City, Petitgoue made significant contributions to the broader basketball community in Wisconsin. He served as the executive director for the Wisconsin State Basketball Coaches Association for many years, a role that further solidified his influence in the sport. Although he faced health issues that kept him from attending the most recent WIAA state championship, his dedication and passion were never truly gone.

A Celebration of Life and Legacy

While some might argue that Cuba City could have won more state titles under his leadership, Petitgoue always prioritized the growth and experience of his players. In 2003, he was inducted into the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame and continued to be recognized with numerous accolades, including the Hometown Hero award from the Wisconsin State Assembly in 2023.

Fond Memories and Tributes

As news of Petitgoue’s passing spread, tributes poured in from former players, coaches, and sports figures who reflected on his remarkable impact on their lives and careers. His legacy as a coach, mentor, and friend will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Milwaukee will always remember Jerry Petitgoue—not just as a legendary coach, but as a truly great human being.

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