GREEN BAY (WLUK) — The annual Phoenix-Packers Steak Fry took place Tuesday night at the Lambeau Field Atrium, with the event celebrating its 24th year.

It’s the biggest fundraiser of the year for the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s athletic department.

In total, over $2 million has been raised in the event’s 24 years. This year’s steak fry raised $330,000 — the most money in a single year in the event’s history, breaking last year’s mark of $305,000.

“Just to see the support from the community through our ups and downs. Obviously our year didn’t go the way we wanted, but just to feel the support, that they still have our backs and donate to make our program better and the university better, it’s really cool to see,” Phoenix men’s basketball guard Preston Ruedinger said.

Phoenix basketball coaches Doug Gottlieb and Kayla Karius were both hired after last year’s steak fry, making this year’s event their first to attend.

“I never attended as a player, so this is really fun to see it all come together. I know there has been a lot of hard work that has gone on behind the scenes from our athletic department,” said Karius.

“Last year at this time, I was prepping I think for an AAU basketball tournament in Las Vegas, so it’s my first time to catch up with a bunch of friends I’ve only known for 11 months,” Gottlieb added.

Attendees had the chance to win up to $5,000 through a cash raffle, bid on various silent auction items — like a signed Jordan Love helmet — and most importantly, chow down on a steak dinner while connecting with both Packers and UW-Green Bay staff.

“You know, being in college football and being an ex-college head coach, I know how hard it is. You’ve got to raise money in so many different ways right now, especially with NIL and so many of the other different things, so you gotta do it. College has changed and anything people can do to help, they’ve gotta do,” said Jeff Hafley, defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers.

Next year’s event will be a special one: the milestone 25th year, in which the Packers and UW-Green Bay Athletics team up for this special fundraising event.