Menasha, WI — In a triumph that underscores community spirit and the power of local engagement, Menasha High School was awarded the $1 million grand prize in the T‑Mobile 5G Friday Night Lights sweepstakes. The prize will be directed entirely toward rebuilding Calder Stadium, which suffered extensive damage during the July tornado that knocked out lights and destroyed bleacher sections.
Community support drives victory
The school secured the win with roughly 390,000 votes, outpacing the runner‑up by a margin of about 200,000 votes. The overwhelming response reflects the deep pride Menasha residents have in their high school athletics and the desire to see Calder Stadium restored as a safe, modern venue for football, track, and community events.
Additional funding for neighboring schools
While Menasha received the full $1 million, the three other finalist high schools each earned $250,000 to renovate their own stadiums. This broader investment in Wisconsin’s high‑school sports infrastructure demonstrates how the sweepstakes is helping multiple communities recover from the recent tornado outbreak.
Local partners already lending a hand
Even before the sweepstakes award, the Green Bay Blizzard—a professional indoor football team—raised more than $15,000 in August to assist with Calder Stadium repairs. Their contribution, combined with the forthcoming T‑Mobile funds, will enable the school district to replace damaged lighting, rebuild bleacher sections, and upgrade other essential facilities.
Impact on students and families
During the 2025‑2026 season, Menasha’s football team played its home games at Lawrence University in Appleton while Calder Stadium was being repaired. The new funding will bring the team back to its home field, allowing families to gather on familiar grounds and reinforcing the tradition of Friday night football that unites the town.
Looking ahead
School officials plan to begin construction later this year, with a timeline that aims to have the stadium ready for the 2027 football season. The project will not only restore a beloved athletic venue but also provide a modern space for school assemblies, community gatherings, and future events that strengthen Menasha’s family‑focused values.
Mayor Paul Johnson praised the achievement, noting that “the generosity of our residents and the support from T‑Mobile illustrate the power of community collaboration. Rebuilding Calder Stadium is a testament to Menasha’s resilience and commitment to providing safe, uplifting environments for our youth.”
As the town celebrates this win, the broader message is clear: when families, local businesses, and civic leaders rally together, they can overcome adversity and preserve the traditions that define their community.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
