THE GREEN BAY BOMBERS: BUILT THROUGH 7V7

When you look at the Green Bay Bombers, you’re looking at what 7v7 football is all about.

Coach Ken Ciak and his group of athletes have been playing together since 4th grade. What started as a few kids looking for more football in the offseason has grown into one of Wisconsin’s most connected and successful 7v7 programs.

Now, nearly a decade later, that same core group are high school seniors — and they’re dominating. Ciak’s son and a few Bombers are defending state champions, while the rest play for another school that’s undefeated in 2025. There’s even a chance those two programs could meet in the Wisconsin state championship, with 17 Bombers players on the field at once.

That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of years of learning, competing, and leading together through 7v7.

“We’ve never even held tryouts,” Ciak said. “It’s always been word of mouth. Friends joining friends. We just wanted to play football and get better together.”

Through 7v7, these athletes have learned far more than schemes or playbooks. They’ve developed discipline, chemistry, and a deep understanding of the passing game — something that’s still catching up in parts of Wisconsin. Their confidence and consistency have carried over to their school seasons, where many now serve as team captains and leaders.

The Bombers’ reputation goes beyond their record. They’re known for their sportsmanship and team-first mentality — no taunting, no selfish play, just a group of kids who love football and each other.

“The job of a coach is to make kids love football more than they did when they started,” Ciak said. “If they walk away still loving the game, you did your job.”

For Ciak, 7v7 has never just been about winning tournaments — it’s about shaping the kind of athletes and people these players become.

The Bombers have learned how to compete hard and stay composed, how to lead with respect, and how to enjoy every rep together. They’ve played all over the Midwest, faced elite programs, and learned that every play matters — not just for the scoreboard, but for the lessons that last long after the season ends.

Now, with younger brothers stepping up to continue the Bombers legacy, that same culture is being passed down — built on friendship, accountability, and love for the game.

Because at the end of the day, this is what 7v7 does for kids: it builds confident leaders, creates lifelong bonds, and keeps the joy of football alive.