Lambeau Field is one of the most historic and history-rich venues in all of sports. The long-time home of the Green Bay Packers has many NFL fans, players, and broadcasters alike looking at the stadium as a “bucket-list” destination with hopes of being able to visit the proud grounds in Green Bay, WI.
The weather, the fans, and even the build of the stadium itself lend to the allure and magic that is Lambeau Field. Even the name is from the franchise’s rich history, and its namesake is one of the founding fathers of football. Let’s take a closer look at how Lambeau Field got its name.
From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!
How Did Lambeau Field Get Its Name?
For its first eight seasons, Lambeau Field was informally known as “New City Stadium”; however, it was renamed in August 1965 in memory of Packers founder, player, and long-time head coach, Earl “Curly” Lambeau.
Lambeau Field is the oldest continually operating NFL stadium, and in 2007, the Packers completed their 51st season at Lambeau Field, breaking the all-time NFL record set by the Chicago Bears. The Bears spent 50 seasons playing at Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs.
With a total capacity of 81,441, Lambeau Field is the third-largest stadium in the NFL, not factoring in standing-room-only seats, and it’s the largest venue in the state of Wisconsin.
Who Is Earl ‘Curly’ Lambeau?
Lambeau, the namesake of the Packers stadium, was a player and coach in the NFL. Lambeau, along with his friend and fellow Green Bay native George Whitney Calhoun, founded the Green Bay Packers in 1919. Lambeau served as team captain in the team’s first year before becoming a player-coach in 1920.
Lambeau was a halfback in his playing days and was the team’s primary runner and passer during that time, accounting for 35 touchdowns in 77 games. He won his only NFL championship as a player in 1929.
MORE: Green Bay Packers Depth Chart
During his playing days, he was also the team’s head coach and general manager, a role he held from 1920-1949. During his tenure, he led the Packers to over 200 wins and six NFL championships, including three straight from 1929 to 1931.
He trails only George Halas of the Chicago Bears and Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots for the most NFL championships by a coach and was the coach for eight Pro Football Hall of Famers.