Hackettstown resident among finalists for the 2024 Packers FAN Hall of Fame
Voting ends Jan. 31; honoree announced in late winter
Ten finalists have been named in the search for the 27th member of the Packers FAN Hall of Fame, and one of them is from Hackettstown.
The first professional football team to have a hall of fame, the Green Bay Packers enhanced that distinction in 1998 by establishing a Packers FAN Hall of Fame. It was founded for the purpose of annually honoring a devout and longtime Packers fan.
Packers fans were asked to nominate themselves or a friend for the honor with an essay of 500 words or less, accompanied by a photo, explaining why he or she should be recognized. From those nominations, 10 finalists were selected by the Packers FAN Hall of Fame selection committee.
This year’s 10 finalists are:
- John Brosig – Pound, Wis.
- Regan Buchholz – Bonduel, WI
- Lori Coonen – Combined Locks, Wis.
- Paul Gasper – Onalaska, Wis.
- Ken Groholski – Manawa, Wis.
- Tammy Hedges – Weston, Fla.
- Michael Rossi – Hackettstown, N.J.
- Scott Schwartz – Pulaski, Wis.
- Valerie Smick – Yorkville, Ill.
- Bill Port – New Berlin, Wis.
Fans can read the finalists’ profiles and vote online by visiting packers.com/fhof. The winner will be selected by Packers fans and the Packers’ selection committee.
The voting deadline is 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2025. Voters will be entered into a random drawing to win Packers merchandise.
The honoree’s selection will be announced in late February 2025. He or she will receive four club seats to a 2025 Packers home game, along with four pre-game sideline passes; four passes to the Packers Hall of Fame; custom Packers jersey; a $500 Packers Pro Shop gift certificate; and a one-year subscription to PackersNews.com.
The honoree also will have his or her name added to the list of FAN Hall of Fame honorees recognized in the Packers Hall of Fame.
Below is Michael’s nomination, as posted on Packers.com:
I am nominating my father, Michael, for the 2024 Green Bay Packers Fan Hall of Fame because he exemplifies the passion, loyalty, and dedication that makes a true Packers fan. My dad’s journey as a Packers fan began at just 8 years old, when he took the extraordinary step of placing himself on the season ticket waiting list-a decision that reflects his lifelong commitment to the team. Since then, his love for the Packers has only grown stronger. I am incredibly fortunate to have been born into Packers Nation, a privilege my dad made possible. He took me to my first game at Lambeau Field when I was just 9 years old, and it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever. Over the years, attending games together has become a special tradition that reflects not just our shared love for the team, but also the bond we share as father and daughter. My dad is a walking encyclopedia of Packers history. Whether it’s legendary games, player stats, or the franchise’s rich legacy, his knowledge is unmatched. Packers games are sacred to him-he never misses watching one and makes every effort to attend games at Lambeau Field when he can. When he can’t make it to Lambeau, my dad transforms our living room into a mini Lambeau Field every Sunday. The space is decked out with Packers memorabilia, and he creates an atmosphere that captures the energy and excitement of being at the stadium. He treats game days like a ritual, complete with cheering, commentary, and celebration that brings the whole family together. My dad’s unwavering support for the Packers goes far beyond the average fan’s dedication. His passion is infectious, and he embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Green Bay Packers fan. This is why I believe he deserves a place in the Packers Fan Hall of Fame. My dad isn’t just a fan; he’s a living testament to the heart and soul of the Green Bay Packers community. GO PACK GO! The attached photo is of my father, me, and my brother at Lambeau field in 2004. This was my first game.
To vote, click here.
