This year’s Friday Night 5G Lights competition officially kicked off July 15th.  Last season, nearly 1,750 high schools from all 50 states – including Crest Ridge High School — brought unmatched energy and creativity, rallying their communities and the nation, ultimately crowning Inola High School from Inola, Oklahoma the grand prize winner. The unveiling of Inola’s grand new stadium upgrade will be Sept. 5 during the evening football game and celebration.

This year’s competition promises to be even bigger, with more winners, more prizes and more chances for small towns to shine on a national stage. 450 schools will win $5,000 through weekly $5K Fridays giveaways, 25 finalists will each score $25,000 for their football programs and more.

The grand prize winner will receive a $1 million football field upgrade, a renovated weight room from Gronk Fitness, a consultation with stadium experience experts, an all-expense-paid trip to the SEC Championship Game for select school officials and students and a tailgate party revealing the finalized upgrades in 2026.

More than 2,500 high schools across the country have pre-registered, and over 90 high schools already signed up across Oklahoma.

Eligible to high schools in towns under 150,000 residents with a deadline to apply by September 12. The Entry Website is www.FridayNight5GLights.com. Entries should include a short story on why the school deserves a game-changing field transformation.  Finalist selection will be based on creativity, need, and community spirit.   Public voting opens Sept. 25 – Oct. 24, with bonus votes earned via weekly “Social Plays.”

The grand prize winner will be announced on Oct. 30.