GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – Several high school football teams from around the state descended upon Titletown to compete in the Green Bay Packers’ 11-On seven-on-seven football tournament, an annual event that combines competition, camaraderie, and community.
This year’s participants included Eau Claire North, Hortonville, Menomonie, Sun Prairie East, Two Rivers, Union Grove, West De Pere, and Winneconne.
The event brought together both large and small schools for a full day of action, allowing teams to sharpen their skills before official practices begin later this summer.
“I think that it’s a lot of fun having smaller schools come down here — high schools showing what they can do, especially ’cause there are eight teams here. It’s pretty fun,” said Two Rivers football player Marquarius Lee.
“Yeah, it’s definitely been a great opportunity. Just to have Two Rivers — just a small town — have them out here and have the right to be seen,” added Lee’s teammate Kole Klien.
Teams played in round-robin group play early Friday morning before advancing into bracket play to determine a champion.
For coaches, the event provides a valuable look at how offseason preparation is translating onto the field.
“A great tournament for us, good exposure, kids love this event — a lot of good teams. We’re kind of a small school with big schools,” said Two Rivers head coach Kevin Shillcox. “So it’s always better to play better talent and see what we can do. We always look forward to coming here when we get a chance.”
In addition to the tournament, the student-athletes took part in leadership-building activities, toured Titletown, and even met Packers legend John Kuhn — all part of the franchise’s effort to give back to the football community in Wisconsin.
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“It’s awesome to see the kids and compete, they get really into it, as you can probably hear all the surround sound,” said Packers outreach coordinator Jake Krueger. “It’s such a cool experience — being in July, so close to training camp and so close to these kids starting practice and games. It’s obviously important for them to bond as a team and get ready for Friday night lights.”
The Packers begin training camp on July 23, while the Wisconsin high school football season officially kicks off in August.
