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Braugeor Zeitler, Celebrated UW-Oshkosh Tennis Star and Coach, Passes Away at 88
Oshkosh, WI – Braugeor Paul Zeitler, a UW-Oshkosh Athletics Hall of Fame inductee and a dominant force in wisconsin tennis, has died at the age of 88 [[1]]. Zeitler, remembered for his remarkable playing career and dedication to the sport, passed away on June 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of athletic achievement and community impact.
A Titan on the Court
Zeitler’s time at UW-Oshkosh was anything but ordinary. Although he did not follow the traditional four-year collage timeline, his performance on the court was exceptional. He competed in 1957, 1960, 1961, and 1963, amassing a remarkable 53-3 record in singles play. His freshman year saw him achieve an 11-2 singles record, earning him the title of the team’s Most Valuable Player. After an initial defeat at the WIAC tournament, zeitler remained undefeated for the next six years.
After a break due to work commitments in 1958 and 1959, Zeitler returned in 1960, playing No. 1 singles and achieving a perfect 10-0 record.Due to WIAC restrictions, he competed in No. 1 doubles at the league tournament, partnering with Bill Simon to secure a 6-1, 6-4 victory over UW-La Crosse, contributing to the Titans’ WIAC championship. In 1961,Zeitler clinched the WIAC No. 1 singles title with a flawless 12-0 record, also qualifying for the NAIA Championship as part of UW-Oshkosh’s top doubles team.
Did You Know? Zeitler’s perfect regular season record in 1963 included defeating his first four singles opponents at the WIAC Tournament by a combined score of 48-7!
Service and Continued Success
In 1962, Zeitler was called to active duty by the Wisconsin national Guard. While stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington, he continued to excel, winning the base’s individual championship with a decisive victory over Roman Jimenez.
Zeitler’s senior year in 1963 culminated in another perfect regular season and a WIAC Tournament victory over UW-La Crosse’s Jim Stenson, earning him a spot at the NAIA Championship. He earned a bachelor’s degree from UW-Oshkosh in 1964 and later obtained two more degrees in art, setting the stage for his next role.
A Legacy of Coaching and Mentorship
From 1972 to 1999, Zeitler shared his expertise as an art teacher at Oshkosh West High School, while also working as a tennis pro at local clubs. He then transitioned to coaching at Oshkosh West High School, leading the boys’ team from 1972-2003 and the girls’ squad from 1987-2003. Both teams secured two Fox Valley Association championships under his guidance. Zeitler’s contributions were recognized in 1999 when The Appleton Post-Crescent named him Boys Tennis Coach of the Year. In 2022, Oshkosh West High School honored him by naming its newly-constructed tennis courts the Braugeor Zeitler Tennis Center [[2]].
Pro Tip: When coaching, focus on fundamentals and consistency. these are the building blocks for success in any sport.
Honors and Remembrance
Zeitler’s achievements extended beyond his college career. In 1967, he won the wisconsin Open Doubles Tournament with Kip Whitlinger. he remained an active member of UW-Oshkosh’s Alumni association,Titan Booster Club,and National “O” Club. In 2012, he was named to the WIAC All-Centennial Men’s Tennis team [[3]].
Zeitler is survived by his wife, Donna, and their children, Jancee and Bradon. His daughter, Jancee, followed in his footsteps, playing tennis at UW-Oshkosh from 1996 to 1998.
Braugeor Zeitler: A Summary of Achievements
| Category | Achievement |
|---|---|
| UW-oshkosh Tennis | 53-3 career singles record |
| WIAC championships | multiple titles in singles and doubles |
| Coaching | Multiple Fox Valley Association championships at Oshkosh west High School |
| Awards | UW-Oshkosh Athletics Hall of Fame, WIAC All-Centennial Team |
| Recognition | Braugeor zeitler Tennis Center at Oshkosh West High School |
The Enduring Appeal of Tennis
Tennis remains a popular sport worldwide, enjoyed by millions for its combination of physical and mental challenges. According to the International tennis Federation, tennis is played in over 200 countries, with participation rates steadily increasing, especially among younger demographics. The sport’s accessibility, requiring minimal equipment and adaptable to various skill levels, contributes to its widespread appeal. furthermore, the rise of professional tennis stars continues to inspire new generations to pick up a racket and experiance the thrill of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braugeor Zeitler
- What were Braugeor Zeitler’s accomplishments in tennis at UW-Oshkosh?
- Braugeor Zeitler was a dominant tennis player at UW-Oshkosh, with a career singles record of 53-3. He won multiple WIAC titles and qualified for the NAIA Championship.
- When did Braugeor Zeitler play tennis for UW-Oshkosh?
- Zeitler competed for UW-Oshkosh in 1957, 1960, 1961, and 1963. He took time off in 1958 and 1959 due to work obligations.
- What other sports did Braugeor zeitler play?
- There is no information about Braugeor Zeitler playing other sports.
- What was Braugeor Zeitler’s coaching career like?
- Zeitler coached tennis at Oshkosh West High School from 1972-2003 for the boys’ team and 1987-2003 for the girls’ team, winning multiple Fox Valley Association championships.
- What honors did Braugeor Zeitler receive?
- Zeitler was inducted into the UW-Oshkosh Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012 and named to the WIAC all-Centennial Men’s Tennis team [[2]]. oshkosh West High School also named its tennis courts the Braugeor zeitler Tennis Center in his honor.
- Who are Braugeor zeitler’s survivors?
- Braugeor Zeitler is survived by his wife, Donna, and his children, Jancee and Bradon.
What are your favorite memories of Brauge
