History
On September 24, 1966, Memorial Stadium hosted the inaugural Potato Bowl football game — a matchup proudly promoted as a showdown between two of the nation’s premier potato‑growing regions: Idaho and the Red River Valley. The concept of building a full week of festivities around potatoes and football came from the combined vision of the UND Alumni Center staff, UND’s Athletics Director, and the UND Football Coaching staff. That first game set the tone for the tradition to come, as the Fighting Sioux dominated Idaho State with a decisive 41–0 victory under the leadership of Head Coach Marv "Whitey" Helling.
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.
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.
Bluepeak Fiber Internet 2026 Potato Bowl Scholarship
Mattia Braun
Mattia Braun is studying political science at the University of North Dakota and plans to pursue a career in public policy. In the summer of 2026, she will intern for U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer in Washington, D.C. Mattia is passionate about strengthening local families, communities, businesses, and farms through thoughtful legislation and effective government policy.
2026 Potato Bowl Grand Marshal
Clark Piepkorn
Clark Piepkorn grew up on the family farm in Stanley ND. He graduated from Stanley in 1984. He attended the University of North Dakota, graduating with a double major in Marketing and Financial Management. He graduated in 1988.
In 1995, Clark started Happy Grass, a lawn fertilization and weed control company, where he currently serves as President, CEO.
In 1992, Clark joined his father Lee and his Uncle Clarence's in their potato sprout inhibition business. In 2008, after serving several roles in the company, Clark became president and CEO of Midwest Potato Services and still serves in that role.
In 2000, Clark was awarded one of the Outstanding Young North Dakotan's by the ND Jaycees.
In 2026, Clark was awarded the Meritorious Service award given by Northland Potato Grower Association.
Today, Clark and his family reside in Grand Forks. His family includes his son Tanner, daughter Taylor and his wife Kathy.
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