The Idaho Bowl is set to return for its third consecutive year, bringing together middle school football players from across the state for a showcase game at Boise’s Simplot Stadium on June 12, 2026. Admission is free, and organizers are asking attendees to bring donations for Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Statewide Talent Converges on the Treasure Valley
A total of 71 Idaho schools will have representation at this year’s event, making it one of the largest gatherings of young football talent in the state. Players will check in Tuesday, June 9 at the College of Idaho in Caldwell, where a mini football camp will be held before the week builds toward game day.
Executive director Laif Morrison described the scale of the event as something that doesn’t happen often in youth sports. “It’s extremely rare to be able to bring this amount of talent and kids from all across the state to one location for one purpose,” he said.
The coaching staff represents programs from across the Magic Valley region and beyond, including Kimberly and Canyon Ridge. Juan Alvarado, head coach of the Riverhawks, is serving as a coach for the seventh grade team. Alvarado noted that one of the unique values of the Idaho Bowl is how it tests players against unfamiliar competition. When kids are placed on a team alongside athletes from other schools, he said, it gives them a real measure of where their abilities stand.
Game Day Details at Simplot Stadium
The bowl games will be played at Simplot Stadium in Boise, with the first kickoff scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on June 12. Fans looking to cheer on their local players can attend at no cost, though organizers are encouraging those who come out to bring items to support Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provides housing and support for families of seriously ill children receiving medical care away from home.
What Comes Next
For families with middle schoolers involved in the Idaho Bowl, the week begins with check-in and the camp session in Caldwell on June 9. Game day at Simplot Stadium on June 12 is the main event, open to the public. Those planning to attend are encouraged to bring charitable donations for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Details on team rosters and the full schedule are available through the Idaho Bowl’s organizing office.