History
On September 24, 1966, the very first Potato Bowl football game was played at Memorial Stadium and was billed as a battle between two of the largest potato growing regions in the United States (Idaho and the Red River Valley). The idea of creating a week of festivities to celebrate potatoes and football was the brainchild of UND Athletic Director Len Marti, Head Football Coach Marv “Whitey” Helling, Assistant Football Coach Jerry Olson and Sports Information Director Lee Bohnet. In that first game in 1966, the Fighting Sioux thumped Idaho State 41-0. UND is 41-13 in its first 54 Potato Bowl games.
Potato Bowl USA 2026 Ambassadors
Joslyn Jackson
Joslyn Jackson is from West Fargo, North Dakota, and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of North Dakota. She is on track to graduate in December 2026. Joslyn chose the nursing profession because she is passionate about caring for others and offering empathy during their most vulnerable moments.
After completing her degree, she plans to begin her career as a Registered Nurse in the emergency room, with long‑term goals of returning to school to become a Nurse Practitioner.
Jacey Nelsen
Jacey Nelsen graduated from Valley–Edinburg High School in 2026 and will be attending Northland College to pursue a degree as a pharmacy technician. She has spent time job‑shadowing at her local pharmacy, where she has seen firsthand how meaningful the work can be and the impact it has on people’s lives. Jacey is excited to begin her training and continue building a career centered on helping others.
2026 Potato Bowl Grand Marshal
Coming Soon
Potato Bowl USA Committee Members
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Jacey Kuersteiner, Secretary – NPGA
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Scott Lund – Simplot French Fry Feed
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Ryan Scott – KEM Shrine Potato Bowl Parade
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Julie Kirkeby – Choice Health & Fitness - “Get Wet And Run Wild”
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Jeff Westrem – All Hugo’s Sponsored Events
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Gwen Riskey - iHeart Media Advertising Rep
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Nicole Brush - UND
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Misty Paul – Advertising Rep Leighton Broadcasting