'Just ball out!': Regional Great Wisconsin Bag-Off champion crowned, set to compete in state competition in September

GREENFIELD, Wis. (CBS 58) -- It's strategic, fast-paced, and takes special skills.

We're talking about the art of grocery store bagging.

On Wednesday, Aug. 6, workers from local Pick 'n Saves and Metro Markets battled it out during the Great Wisconsin Bag-Off's regional competition held right in Greenfield. 

"They need to spend 40% of their time working on the front end, so bagging groceries is a core function for them," said Corporate Affairs Manager Emilie Williamson. "It's really great to celebrate that skill that they're building and using every day."

Three contestants made it to the final round, where celebrity judges rated their bagging abilities based on speed, each bag's individual weight, and overall proper technique.

After about a minute of intense competition, Mitchell Williams was crowned and given a trophy.

"My boss was like, so Mitch, there's this competition, and we want you to go. And this is at 9 o'clock in the morning, by the way!" Williams said. "I did not expect to win at all."

When asked about his mindset going in, Williams said, "Just ball out, man. It's a win for the little guy and I love that."

Karlee Darow, who came in third place, said she was thrilled by the excitement.

"It feels amazing. I have Down syndrome, so this experience, I want everyone to remember that," Darow said. "I wanna say that no matter what you can do, you can achieve and go out for your dreams."

Williams now moves on to the state competition, which will take place in the Wisconsin Dells next month.

If he wins that, he'll receive a $500 prize and a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he will compete in nationals.