Excitement is building across Nebraska as the 49th Annual Sertoma 8-Man All-Star Football Game prepares to bring together the state's most promising senior athletes. Organizers have announced the complete rosters, featuring 46 standout graduating seniors who have excelled in eight-man football programs throughout the state.
The contest is set for June 20 at Lloyd Wilson Field in Hastings, a venue that has hosted countless memorable moments in the history of the event. This year's game will showcase a West squad of 25 players facing off against an East squad comprised of 21 athletes, each group representing the best of their respective regions.
The West team draws its talent from schools such as Hitchcock County, Anselmo-Merna and Lawrence-Nelson, while the East side includes standouts from McCool Junction, Lourdes Central Catholic and Johnson-Brock. The rosters reflect the diverse geographic reach of eight-man football across Nebraska's small‑town landscape.
Coaching Staffs Ready to Lead
Mike Seamann, a respected coach from Brady, will head the West team as its head coach. He will be joined by assistants Blake Schwarz, Tye Spies and Ryan Sanger, each bringing a wealth of experience from their respective programs.
On the East side, Matt Kuchar from Bloomfield takes the reins as head coach. His support staff includes Kory Kahlandt, Luke Ericson and Steve Heimes, who will work closely with the players in the days leading up to the game.
Both coaching staffs have emphasized the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship, promising a contest that will be as much about character as it is about athletic prowess. The preparation has been intense, with practices already underway to fine‑tune strategies and build chemistry among the all‑star selections.
The game serves as a celebration of a unique football tradition that has thrived in Nebraska's smaller communities for decades. Eight‑man football, which adapts the standard rules to accommodate smaller rosters, has become a cultural staple in towns where participation numbers differ from larger schools.
Fans from across the state are expected to travel to Hastings for the event, which will be streamed live for those unable to attend in person. Local businesses and community organizations have rallied to support the game, underscoring its role as a unifying force that brings together residents, alumni and former players.
Beyond the on‑field action, the Sertoma All-Star Game provides a platform for senior athletes to showcase their abilities to college scouts and coaches. Many participants have expressed that the exposure and experience will be invaluable as they transition to the next stage of their academic and athletic careers.