Former Packers Coach's Weekly Visits Touched Family's Heart

Rich Bisaccia made a lasting impact on a longtime Packers fan and his sister through his regular check-ins.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 1:47pm

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A longtime Green Bay Packers fan, Mitch Widmeier, is sharing a heartwarming story about the regular visits former Packers special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia made to Mitch and his sister Hannah, who was left fully dependent after a car accident. Bisaccia would make it a point to seek out Mitch and Hannah during their daily walks and spend 10-15 minutes talking to Hannah, who is unable to communicate, in a gesture that meant the world to the family.

Why it matters

This story provides a glimpse into the compassionate side of a coach that many fans may not have seen, highlighting how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in people's lives. It also speaks to the power of sports to bring communities together and provide comfort during difficult times.

The details

Mitch and Hannah Widmeier grew up as devoted Packers fans. After a car accident left Hannah fully dependent at age 21, Mitch became her caretaker, and their daily walks near Titletown became an important routine. Two years ago, they ran into Bisaccia for the first time, and he immediately engaged with Hannah, talking to her for 10 minutes. This became a weekly occurrence during the season, with Bisaccia seeking them out after practices to check in on Hannah and lift her spirits, even on weeks when the special teams struggled.

  • Two years ago, Mitch and Hannah first encountered Bisaccia during one of their daily walks.
  • During the Packers' season, Bisaccia would visit Mitch and Hannah every week, usually after a Wednesday or Thursday practice.

The players

Mitch Widmeier

A longtime Green Bay Packers fan and the caretaker for his sister Hannah, who was left fully dependent after a car accident.

Hannah Widmeier

Mitch's sister, who was left fully dependent after a car accident at the age of 21.

Rich Bisaccia

The former special teams coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, who made a habit of visiting Mitch and Hannah Widmeier during their daily walks and spending time with Hannah.

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What they’re saying

“He b-lined towards us and said, 'Who is this young lady?' I told him this is my sister Hannah. I made sure to tell him right away she's unable to communicate… and he sat there and talked for about 10 minutes.”

— Mitch Widmeier

“In-season, starting in training camp, when I say every single week, it is quite literally every single week. He would come find us when we were out on our walks and make sure to talk to Hannah for 10 to 15 minutes.”

— Mitch Widmeier

“When they would have bad weeks with special teams, he'd say, 'Hannah, I need you to smile for me. It's going to make my week.'”

— Mitch Widmeier

The takeaway

This heartwarming story highlights the compassionate side of a coach that many fans may not have seen, and demonstrates how small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact on people's lives. It's a reminder that sports can bring communities together and provide comfort during difficult times.