West Squad begins Kansas Shrine Bowl Prep at Hutchinson Community College
June 16, 2025
More than 40 of Kansas' top high school football players converged on Hutchinson Community College over the weekend to begin preparation for the 52nd annual Kansas Shrine Bowl.
The West team checked in Saturday morning at HCC's Elland Hall, launching a week-long training camp that culminates with the all-star game June 21 at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City. The contest is scheduled for 7 p.m. and will be broadcast statewide on EAGLE Media stations.
The visiting players and coaches will remain on the Hutchinson campus through Thursday morning, utilizing Gowans Stadium, the Shears Center and dining facilities for their preparation. Head Coach Mike Vernon of Hutchinson High School will serve as an assistant coach for the West squad.
"This is an incredible opportunity for these young men to showcase their talents while supporting a tremendous cause," said Vernon, whose team will conduct 14 practices during the week-long camp.
Nine local student-athletes earned selection to the West roster, including Hutchinson's Terrell King, Pratt's Owen Schmidt, and players from Andale, McPherson, Hesston, Halstead, Buhler and Moundridge.
The Shrine Bowl features recently graduated seniors from across Kansas competing in the annual East-West matchup. Beyond football, the week includes supporting events such as the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp and Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp.
Since 1974, the Kansas Shrine Bowl has raised nearly $4 million for Shriners Children's, a global healthcare network specializing in pediatric care. The nonprofit organization behind the event ensures all proceeds benefit the charity, which provides care regardless of families' ability to pay.
The game has rotated among Kansas cities including Lawrence, Manhattan, Wichita, Topeka, Pittsburg, Emporia, Hays and Hutchinson before arriving in Dodge City for this year's edition.
Players will participate in team-building activities, community meals, media sessions and nightly meetings alongside their on-field preparation during the week in Hutchinson.
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