Organizers decide to postpone the Neb. Shrine Bowl

LINCOLN — The annual Nebraska High School Shrine Bowl football game is being postponed, while the Northeast Nebraska All Star game has been cancelled all together.

The Shrine Bowl game was originally slated for June 6 in Kearney, but it is being pushed back because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are coordinating closely with local public health officials and stakeholders,” Shrine Bowl officials said. “We take the health and safety of all those involved with the Nebraska Shrine Bowl experience very seriously. As the United States and global health officials continue to address the spread of novel coronavirus and COVID-19 infection, we are monitoring the situation in collaboration with our Executive Board and host partners.”

The NE Neb. All Star Board of Directors said they felt they had no choice, but to cancel the event.

Several area athletes were slated to play in that game, including: Rex Becker, Jacob Keiser, Eric Hoesing, Peyton Haahr, Shaye Morten and Dylan Dendinger,

Organizers said they plan to recognize the All Stars by sending out personalized T-shirts noting their selection as an All Star.

In a letter sent Wednesday to players, Shrine Bowl officials said the deadline for the game being played is July 31.

Players’ families are being surveyed as to whether July 11 or July 18 would be a preferred date.

The Shrine Bowl has been played annually since 1959.

Rosters are comprised only of graduating Nebraska high school seniors.