KENOSHA, Wis. — Moments after confirming that the Green Bay Packers will kick off the season in Brazil against the Philadelphia Eagles, both Mark Murphy, president and CEO of the Packers, and Kenny Clark, Packers defensive tackle, expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude for their fans.
“It is awesome. I went to Brazil two years ago and had an amazing time out there. There is a lot of football fans and Packers fans out there,” said Clark. “It is going to be an amazing environment; this is just going to be huge for our fan base.”
Murphy echoed Clark’s sentiments.
“First off, to our fans in Brazil, thank you. I think this is very exciting; we’ve been working with the league for several months now and I think what it came down to is just how popular the Packers are in Brazil. We are kind of the people’s team and our history and tradition. Apparently, the Green and Gold is very popular in Brazil,” Murphy said.
Murphy said the Packers organization is looking forward to playing in a new place.
“It will be historic; I think our fans are really looking forward to it,” said Murphy.
Now that the matchup for the NFL’s first-ever South American showdown is set, Clark has a message for fans.
“Just bring your popcorn. It is going to be an exciting time. It’s an exciting time and future for the Packers. Just make that place hostile for us and ‘Go, Pack, Go,”’ said Clark.
The Packers will play the Eagles in Sao Paulo on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024.
The announcement was made shortly before players and the front office made a surprise stop at Indian Trail High School and Academy in Kenosha, as part of the organization’s annual Tailgate Tour.
Current and former players shared messages about grit, hope and overcoming adversity with the students.
Principal Scott Kennow expressed his excitement about the news of the upcoming game in Brazil.
“[I am] super excited. [I] hope everyone is safe and everything goes well, but it’s great to be able to share a bit about American culture with other countries,” Kennow said.
Of course, Kennow said he was excited about the Packers’ visit to his school, too. He said one moment stood out above the rest.
“The best part of today during their talk was when one of the players spoke to the kids about cell phones and how they are so addictive and distractive when it comes to learning and they were dead silent.
“It was so great for them to hear that these professional athletes get fined $25,000 for having their cell phone out. But not only that, but the why: You need to be respectful to your audience. Your teachers and peers have something important to share with each of you. That was a true added moment,” said Kennow.