Luke Rissling: The Swiss army knife you need to know

Luke Rissling, The Swiss Army Knife of Green Bay West

Two-way impact player leading the team in rushing yards, making defensive plays all over the field, and serving as a vocal leader for the Wildcats.

I had the chance and privilege to speak with Luke Rissling about his journey in football and his vision for his future in the sport. 

Luke Rissling started playing football back in seventh grade, generally just for fun, growing up playing for the St. Joe’s club team nearby. But after those early years, something clicked. He wasn’t just playing to stay active—he developed a true passion for the game and committed himself to improving not only his fitness but also his football future.

By his freshman year in 2023, Rissling was already making waves on varsity, playing in eight games and racking up 35 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and an interception as a young defender learning the ropes of high school football. That early experience laid the foundation for the breakout that followed.

Fast forward to his sophomore season in 2024, and Luke exploded as a force on both sides of the ball. Rissling totaled 54 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 1 fumble recovery in nine games, establishing himself as a defensive cornerstone for Green Bay West.

But his impact didn’t stop there. Offensively, Luke became the Wildcats’ workhorse, grinding out 409 rushing yards and a touchdown. Whether carrying the ball between the tackles or chasing down ball carriers on defense, Luke’s physicality and toughness stood out every Friday night.

When I asked Luke about this upcoming junior year, which is widely known as a pivotal year for every athlete with college ambitions, he didn’t hesitate. He made it clear his focus is set on one major goal:

“My main goal this year is to make First Team All-FRCC as a middle linebacker and be the best linebacker in the conference.”

But his vision stretches beyond personal accolades. Luke’s bigger goal is to leave behind a legacy at Green Bay West, something that future players can look back on and build from:

“I don’t just want the awards. I want to be a leader here and help build something bigger than myself that’ll last at GBW for years to come.”

When I asked him about players he models his game after, Luke pointed directly to one of the greatest linebackers the NFL has ever seen – Luke Kuechly:

“I try to take Kuechly’s ability to make big plays in big moments. But even more than that, I try to bring his mentality – being the sharpest guy on the field, knowing the play better than anyone else out there.”

Even off the field, Luke’s discipline shines through. He currently holds a 3.89 GPA, demonstrating that he’s just as dedicated in the classroom as he is on the gridiron.

Luke Rissling isn’t just producing; he's proving he can lead a program from both sides of the ball. With his best football still ahead, he’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing under-the-radar names in Wisconsin’s Class of 2027.

Luke Making Defensive Stop on Third Down

Luke Rushing for First Down