Royalton In The Running For T-Mobile’s Friday Night 5-G Lights Grand Prize!

High school football is a longstanding community tradition in Minnesota, drawing residents together each fall to support their teams. This year, Royalton High School has been recognized nationally through T-Mobile’s Friday Night 5G Lights competition.

The contest, which is open to towns with populations of 150,000 or fewer, provides funding to upgrade football facilities. In 2025, more than 450 schools each received $5,000 as part of the program, including Albany High School. Schools selected for the top 25, however, advance to compete for the grand prize: a $1 million package that includes a football field upgrade, a consultation with a stadium experience expert, a weight room renovation sponsored by Gronk Fitness, and additional resources.

Royalton High School was announced as one of the 25 finalists. As part of this recognition, the school has already secured $25,000 to support improvements to its athletic facilities. Currently, Royalton is ranked 13th in the national voting process. Votes are collected online each day and tabulated weekly.

The school has dedicated its efforts to honor the memory of alum and coach Nick Lanners. Lanners, remembered for his commitment to improving the Royals’ football field, played a significant role in maintaining and upgrading the facility before his passing. Any funding received through the contest will be used to further enhance the stadium, with potential additions such as new bleachers, an updated scoreboard, and a lasting tribute to Coach Lanners.

Community participation in the voting process is encouraged to increase Royalton’s chances of securing the national prize and continuing its tradition of fostering local pride and connection through high school athletics.