GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) - Notre Dame Academy All-Star football player James Flanigan celebrated with his teammates on Friday as he officially signed his letter of intent to play for the University of Notre Dame. But the day held one more surprise: his jersey for the prestigious Navy All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. During the celebration, Flanigan received his All-American Bowl jersey and took time to express gratitude for the opportunity. Green Bay Rockers release 2025 schedule, home opener set for May 27 “I’m so lucky to have these amazing people around me that have influenced me and helped me along my journey,” Flanigan said. “I’m just thankful for school, which has given me everything.” Football runs in Flanigan’s blood. His father, Jim Flanigan, also attended Notre Dame and enjoyed a successful NFL career as a defensive tackle with the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers, and Philadelphia Eagles. Jim earned the 2000 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. James credited his father for teaching him leadership from an early age. As he prepares for the collegiate level, he reflected on what he’ll miss most about Notre Dame Academy. “All the people here is what really makes it special and it’s really helped me achieve success,” Flanigan said. “I’ll always remember these great people in my life.” Ranked 111th in ESPN’s Top 300 for the class of 2025, Flanigan is a four-star recruit and the top-ranked player in Wisconsin. His impressive high school career saw him excel on both sides of the ball. He received offers from several major programs, including Illinois, Louisville, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Penn State, Stanford, and Wisconsin, before choosing Notre Dame. Packers injury report: Quay Walker among five players ruled out, Watson questionable As Flanigan focuses on recovering from the rigorous high school season, he’s already looking ahead to his next chapter. The 2025 Navy All-American Bowl, which features the nation’s top high school athletes, will be played on Jan. 11.