The 52nd annual Illinois Shrine Game is set to take place on Saturday, June 20, at Tucci Stadium on the campus of Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, drawing together some of the state’s most promising high school football players from 23 central Illinois schools.
Coaches with Proven Track Records
Veteran coaches David Hay and Tony Reetz will guide the squads, with Hay, a former Glenwood Titans head coach who retired after a decade of playoff appearances and two undefeated regular seasons, steering the Red Team, while Reetz, who led Tolono Unity to a 3A state runner‑up finish last fall, will assist on offense.
The game marks the culmination of the 2025‑26 Illinois High School Association athletics season, offering seniors a final showcase before they move on to college or other pursuits.
A Tradition of Community Service
Beyond the on‑field action, the event serves a charitable purpose, with all ticket sales, merchandise and donations funneled to Shriners Hospitals for Children, a globally recognized pediatric health system that treats orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries and cleft lip and palate.
Organizers say the proceeds will help sustain the hospital network’s specialized care for children across the country, reinforcing the game’s long‑standing commitment to community service.
Fans and alumni will recognize familiar faces from across the state, as the matchup brings together talent from a wide geographic spread, including schools in Bloomington and surrounding communities.
Looking Ahead
As the kickoff approaches at roughly 11 a.m., the excitement builds not only for the football itself but also for the impact the proceeds will have on families who rely on the hospital’s services.