GREEN BAY, Wis. — Green Bay West High School had a special visitor Monday afternoon. Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love announced his new initiative “10ve for Cleats," which will donate Nike cleats to a Wisconsin youth sports team every time he scores a touchdown.
Green Bay West head football coach Drew Brusoe has led the wildcats for three years. Brusoe said there are several reasons why they were selected for this honor.
“I think it said 63% of us are financially unfortunate in terms of the student body, it’s a seven-minute drive from the practice facilities at Lambeau,” said Brusoe. “So that was a couple of things that made the management team and Jordan kind of lean towards us and decide to go with us when it comes to hosting this event.”
Love talked with the team about mental health and his new initiative. The Green Bay quarterback also took questions from some of the team’s players.
“I’ve been sitting in these exact bleachers like these guys being a high school student, playing football, just trying to make to the next level, make it to college and not even thinking I’d ever make it to the NFL,” said Love. “It’s definitely a dream to be sitting where I’m at, being an NFL starting quarterback. And it’s an honor and a blessing to be able to have this platform, be able to give back and do something I’ve always dreamt of doing.”
The players said this was an experience they will never forget.
“[His speech did] motivate me a little bit to help my teammates out and make sure everyone is doing good all the time and check on them a little more,” said high school wide receiver Dakotah Montez. “I’m definitely going to use that.”
“Well, I think it’s pretty crazy that West got selected out of all the schools, but I think it’s a pretty unique opportunity,” said linebacker Luke Rissling. “I’m excited, especially on the new field.”
Brusoe said he feels fortunate to share this experience with his team.
“I think it’s a really big thing for the kids…” said Brusoe. “I’m a Green Bay native as well. I grew up at the end of the Brett Favre into the Aaron Rodgers era and now these kids are starting to grow up into the Jordan Love era. So, they really, from an idolized perspective, they really idolized Jordan, and then with his foundation as well, helping out less fortunate people, it’s really, really hitting home for our kids.”