Kimberly, Kaukauna to Launch New Rivalry Trophy with Inaugural "Battle for the Paddle"

KIMBERLY, Wis. — Sept. 3, 2026 — A long-standing Fox Valley Association rivalry gets a new name and a new prize this week as the Kimberly Papermakers host the Kaukauna Galloping Ghosts in the inaugural "Battle for the Paddle" on Friday, Sept. 4, at Papermaker Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

Kimberly and Kaukauna have a fierce, well-established history on the football field, but Friday's game introduces a fresh layer of stakes. The winning team will take home the newly created Paddle trophy, which will be displayed at the victor's school for the following year until the two programs meet again.

"With bragging rights, conference positioning and now a namesake trophy on the line, this game carries more weight than ever," organizers said. "We expect a packed house, a raucous student section and a game that sets the tone for years to come."

The trophy will be unveiled to the public for the first time at Friday's game.

The Battle for the Paddle is intended to become an annual tradition between the two neighboring communities, formalizing a rivalry that already ranks among the most anticipated matchups on the FVA calendar each fall.

Organizers extended a special thanks to Bella's Custom Design for producing the trophy.