What Is the Idaho Bowl?
More Than Just a Game
The Idaho Bowl is Idaho's premier youth all-star football experience for outstanding 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade athletes from across the state. Players are nominated, reviewed, and selected by the Idaho Bowl nomination committee. Many athletes are nominated, but only the best earn the opportunity to represent their grade and community.
Through three completed years, Idaho Bowl athletes have represented 90 future high schools throughout Idaho. The event brings players, families, coaches, and communities together through elite competition, meaningful relationships, and a shared commitment to giving back. Year four is just getting started.
The Athlete Experience
- Four days and three nights on a college campus
- Three nights in campus dorms
- Meals in the college dining facilities
- Five team practices with outstanding athletes and coaches
- Separate 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade competition
- Dynamic guest speakers and premium evening entertainment
- Idaho Bowl apparel, athlete gear, and a custom game jersey
- Memories and relationships that last long after the final whistle
How Athletes Are Selected
Athletes may be nominated by coaches, parents, teachers, community members, or others who believe they deserve consideration. The nomination committee reviews each athlete based on ability, character, effort, and their potential to represent their community well.
More than 1,000 athletes were nominated for the 2026 Idaho Bowl. Nomination and selection information for 2027 will be announced later this winter.
Game Day
The Idaho Bowl features separate 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade all-star games. Families and fans can attend in person, and the games are livestreamed so supporters can watch from anywhere.
The 2026 event welcomed approximately 3,000-5,000 fans in person, reached 11,000 livestream broadcast viewers, and generated more than 3 million social media views.
The 2027 date, location, schedule, athlete fees, and complete packing list will be announced later this winter and spring.
Football With Purpose
The Idaho Bowl proudly supports Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho. Instead of charging admission on game day, we invite fans to bring needed material items that help RMHC Idaho provide housing, meals, transportation, and compassionate support to families with critically ill or injured children receiving medical care.
The Idaho Bowl has become one of RMHC Idaho's largest donors of material items - and we are just getting started. A current donation-needs list will be shared in the spring.
In Honor of Hank
The Idaho Bowl's mission is rooted in the story and legacy of Hank Anderson. Hank's life reminds us that this event is bigger than football. Every game played, every gift donated, and every family helped carries his legacy forward.
Every game. Every gift. Every family helped. In honor of Hank.
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