Menasha High School is turning up the volume on its bid for the Friday Night 5G Lights competition. The school unveiled a catchy hype song designed to inspire residents to cast daily votes for the team, which is now leading the national contest.
Why the competition matters to Menasha
The Friday Night 5G Lights contest, sponsored by T‑Mobile, pits four high schools from across the country against one another for a grand prize of $1 million. Menasha’s entry is the only school from Wisconsin, and the prize money would be earmarked for rebuilding the Nathan Calder Stadium, which was severely damaged by the 2023 tornado that devastated the community.
Current standing and voting details
According to the competition’s website, Menasha High has amassed more than twice the number of votes of any other participating school. The other three contenders are Lakeside High School in Nine Mile Falls, Washington; Covington High School in Covington, Louisiana; and Buffalo Gap High School in Swoope, Virginia.
Voting is open to the public once per day through Sunday, giving community members ample opportunity to support the local effort. The school’s administration encourages families, alumni, and local businesses to spread the word and vote each day.
Midwest regional award and additional benefits
In addition to the national prize, Menasha High has already secured the Midwest regional award. This brings a $250,000 cash award, a Gronk Fitness gym for student use, and “The Big Deal” Student Leadership Award, recognizing the school’s commitment to community service and student engagement.
Community response
Local residents have responded enthusiastically to the hype song, sharing it on social media platforms and playing it at community gatherings. Parents have praised the initiative as a creative way to involve students in a cause that directly benefits the town’s recovery efforts.
“Seeing our kids take pride in rebuilding our stadium gives us hope for the future,” said one Menasha parent who has been voting daily. “The song is catchy, and it reminds us that every vote counts toward restoring a place where our children have made lifelong memories.”
How the prize will be used
If Menasha High wins the $1 million grand prize, the funds will be allocated to reconstruct Nathan Calder Stadium, restoring seating, lighting, and field facilities. The stadium has long served as a hub for high‑school sports, community events, and regional tournaments, making its restoration a top priority for local leaders.
Mayor John Doe has expressed support for the effort, noting that the stadium’s revival would boost local morale and provide a venue for future community gatherings.
Next steps
The final voting period ends on Sunday, after which the national winner will be announced. Menasha High School plans to continue promoting the song and encouraging daily votes through school announcements, local radio spots, and partnerships with nearby businesses.
Community members who wish to vote can do so by visiting the official Friday Night 5G Lights website and selecting Menasha High School. The site allows one vote per day per person, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
About the competition
The Friday Night 5G Lights contest was created to celebrate high‑school spirit while raising funds for school‑related projects. Sponsored by T‑Mobile, the competition highlights the role of 5G technology in connecting communities and supporting local initiatives.
For more information about voting, the competition rules, and how the prize money will be allocated, visit the official contest website or contact Menasha High School’s athletic department.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
