“JUST IN: Packers Name New Coach of the Week as Kiel High School Raiders Stay Perfect on the Path to a Championship”
The Green Bay Packers have named David Esswein of Kiel High School in Kiel, Wisconsin, as the Packers High School Coach of the Week.
Now in his fifth season as head coach of the Raiders, Esswein has led the team to a perfect 11-0 record heading into Level 3 of the WIAA State Football Playoffs. As Kiel aims for an undefeated state championship, the team continues to rely on its strong culture, hard work, and discipline.
“Our culture is based on effort and hard work,” Esswein said. “We emphasize the details and focus on them every day. We hold our players accountable to give their best in everything—whether it’s practice, games, or school. We foster a hardworking environment and encourage leadership, where players not only work hard themselves but motivate their teammates to do the same. This mindset contributes to our success on Friday nights.”
Esswein also prioritizes giving back to the youth in the Kiel community through his program.
“We’re very involved with our youth program,” he said. “Our players volunteer and participate in youth practices. Giving back to the future of Kiel Raider football and serving as positive role models is important to us. The younger kids look up to our high school players like they’re NFL stars, and it’s rewarding to see our players help and give back.”
Esswein, a 2012 Kiel High School graduate, played wide receiver and defensive back for the Raiders under coach Chris Bennin before continuing his playing career as a wide receiver at Upper Iowa University. After earning his degree in 2017, Esswein returned to Kiel as an assistant coach from 2017-2019 and became the head coach in 2020.
“I never expected to be a coach,” Esswein admitted. “But it’s truly my passion.”
While honored to receive the Coach of the Week award, Esswein acknowledges that it reflects the collective effort of many people.
“It’s a huge honor, and it means a lot,” he said. “It’s special because of all the people in Kiel and around our program who work so hard to give our student-athletes the best experience. Our coaching staff is incredible, and their contributions have been key to our program’s progress. This success is the result of a team effort. Our culture in Kiel is amazing, and it’s thanks to our school, administration, and community.”