"Second time's a charm" did not apply to the 1989 Southern Door football team after winning the state title in its first attempt.

By first attempt, that means in the playoffs period, not just in the state title game. Led by future Notre Dame and NFL player Jim Flanigan, the Eagles did not fly through the air but rather on the ground. It was never more true in that fateful state championship game against Westby at Camp Randall Stadium. Flanigan rushed the ball 42 times (third-most in D4 history) for 215 yards. His 38-yard field goal is among the longest in D-4 history in the state title game and his touchdown pass to Jason Norton just added to the lore of the 17-7 win over the Norseman. En route to their first state title in football, the Eagles beat Manawa 35-6, Howards Grove 14-7 in overtime, and Poynette 17-0.  During the regular season, it won 10-7 over Luxemburg-Casco, who would go on to be the state runner-up in Division 3.