MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Menasha’s Calder Stadium could receive a big boost in its rebuilding efforts, but it needs your help.
The program is one of 40 competing for a $1 million grand prize and $250,000 secondary prize in the T-Mobile 5G Friday Night Lights sweepstakes.
- 40 programs are selected and each receive $25,000. Menasha was already named one.
- 10 program compete to win the Central region for a $250,000 prize.
- The winner of each of the four regions compete for a $1,000,000 prize.
As of Friday evening, Menasha was 22,000 votes behind first place McClain High School in Greenfield, Ohio. You can vote once a day through October 25.
“Go out and vote,” said senior football player Deacon Quick. “I mean, this is a great opportunity for Menasha.”
All money would go toward repairs of its tornado-damaged stadium.
“We’d like to get everybody’s support in this,” said head football coach Jeramie Korth.
Where has the team played this season?
The tornado destroyed some of its bleachers, tore through its press box and bent a light pole like a twig. As soon as the tornado left town, it was clear Menasha couldn’t play football there. It instead played its home games at Lawrence University’s Banta Bowl.
“It’s been tough for me,” said Quick. “I grew up around Calder all my life. Once I heard about the tornado I was a little upset, but I mean being able to play at the Banta Bowl is a blessing. Being able to have a football season is a blessing. I’m so glad we’re able to do this.”
When will the repairs be done and how much will it cost?
Korth hopes the stadium is ready for next fall, but knows it’s far from certain. He estimates the total cost of repairs will be several million dollars, which is why the team hopes to earn money toward its stadium repairs through the contest.
“I have faith in the people that they’ll make it happen one way or another, but I’ll tell you what, this would definitely help push it over the edge and allow us to be successful,” said Korth.
Menasha’s last major upgrades to its stadium came in 2017, so the repairs merely bring it back to that quality. Other schools in the contest are looking to make upgrades with the money.
“Some people are looking for a field, to get turf or something like that,” said Korth. “We’re just looking for the ability to put people back in the seats next year and put this all back together as best we possibly can for the upcoming students, so the future can continue. We have great tradition around here.”
