Cadets put rivalry aside, continue Cy-Hawk 'Game Ball Run' tradition
It's not on the field, and no one is keeping score. But in this match-up of Hawkeyes and Cyclones, everyone wins.
"We run through communities, show them some love," University of Iowa senior cadet Dave Weis said.
For more than 30 years, the Army ROTC cadets from both universities have participated in the Game Ball Run.
A handoff was made on both campuses earlier this week. Coach Kirk Ferentz did the honors in Iowa City, and Cyclones' star wide receiver Jaylin Noel in Ames.
Cadets from both schools then run through multiple towns before meeting in the middle in Tama.
From there, they run together. Lots of eager fans at South Tama County Elementary School were waiting to greet them.
"We're looking for ways to encourage our kids to have them think about their future, and think about their goals after high school and this is just a great way to start that conversation," Principal Brad Schweppe said. "But to get them excited not only about the tradition and the rivalry of the game but to get them thinking about what's next in my life, what options are out there, and there are a million options for our kids."
From the school, the cadets share the game ball with even more fans. This time at Sunny Hill Care Center.
"I enjoy getting to meet all this wisdom and just interact with the red and the black and becoming one team. Just for today," ISU sophomore cadet Luke Scouler said.
This year's run wrapped with all the cadets enjoying a meal at the Tama-Toledo Country Club. Two rivals, but one Army and one state.
"Just fostering that relationship between the two programs and making sure Iowa stays together," Iowa senior cadet Maxim Dickson said.
Mission accomplished.
