APPLETON, WI — Packers quarterback Jordan Love used his recent visit to the Boys & Girls Club to launch the third year of his “10ve for Cleats” campaign, a charitable effort that provides new cleats to youth sports teams in Wisconsin and Bakersfield, Calif.
Love’s program ties each of his touchdowns to a pair of cleats for a K‑12 team. Last season he recorded 23 touchdowns and donated 2,000 cleats to 46 teams, splitting the gifts evenly between Wisconsin and Bakersfield. He explained, “I wanted a reason for kids to stay involved in sports, and there was no reason for them not to have the gear. Giving out a new pair of cleats each year is an easy way to keep kids playing.”
Goal of 5,000 pairs
For the 2026 season, Love aims to reach a cumulative total of 5,000 pairs of cleats donated. The campaign’s growth reflects both the quarterback’s personal commitment to youth athletics and the community’s enthusiastic response. Local coaches and parents have praised the program for removing a common barrier to participation—cost of equipment.
“My Cause My Cleats” contest
During the same visit, Love announced the winner of his “My Cause My Cleats” design contest. An Appleton student’s artwork will be featured on the cleats Love wears in an upcoming home game, giving the young artist a chance to see his design on the field.
The event also gave kids a chance to ask Love questions ranging from family life to the number of footballs he has thrown in his career. Their curiosity and excitement underscored the impact of a visible role model engaging directly with the community.
Community impact
Local leaders highlighted how the donations support not only individual players but entire programs. “When a team receives a full set of cleats, it lifts the whole squad,” said a coach from a participating Appleton middle‑school team. “It means we can focus on fundamentals and teamwork rather than worrying about equipment shortages.”
Beyond the immediate benefit of new gear, the campaign reinforces the broader message that faith‑based values, strong families, and personal responsibility can translate into tangible community service. Love’s public statements often reference his gratitude for the support he receives from fans, family, and his faith, framing the initiative as a way to give back to the neighborhoods that helped shape his career.
As the season progresses, the “10ve for Cleats” program will continue to track its donations, with updates expected from both the Wisconsin and California sites. The partnership between the Packers organization, local schools, and youth clubs demonstrates how professional athletes can leverage their platform to strengthen families and neighborhoods across the nation.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
