50th Shriners Classic: Alaska Seniors Play Final Game for Kids' Medical Care

Senior football players from across Alaska played their final high school games on Saturday at the Dome in Anchorage. The Al Aska Shriners Football Classic marked its 50th anniversary this year. The event raises funds for Shriners Hospitals for Children. The money supports medical care for children in remote Alaskan villages.

The Shriners masonic society organizes the annual event. It has operated for five decades to help local youth. Mark Hartz, vice president of the Shriners Hospitals for Children board, explained the need for the funds. He said the event helps rural and Alaska Native populations receive necessary treatment. Hartz noted that the hospital network began in 1922 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He described the long history of Alaskan players supporting the cause as incredible.

Teams from all four levels of state competition sent representatives to the event. Organizers shuffled these players into balanced rosters. This format allowed athletes to play alongside opponents they rarely meet. North Pole head coach Michael Hollett has participated in the event for eight years. He called the experience a great time. Hollett said the stories from the kids and the community commitment are special to him.

Players expressed excitement about the final opportunity to suit up before winter. Phoenix Goolsby from Soldotna recalled being stoked when he learned of his selection. He described the players as good friends off the field. David Hollett from North Pole said he was excited to be with his teammates for one last game. He enjoyed the environment where everyone played at a similar skill level.

The 2026 Alaska high school football season concluded the week before this event. The exhibition game provided a send-off for the state's top seniors. The gathering combined competitive football with a fundraising effort. The players met and bonded with peers from different regions. The event highlighted the connection between state athletics and local healthcare needs.

The Shriners Hospitals for Children network provides care for children with orthopedic conditions and burns. The Al Aska chapter focuses on supporting Alaskan families. The 50th anniversary event served as a milestone for the organization. It demonstrated continued support from the state's football community. The players and coaches viewed the game as a chance to give back. The event concluded the competitive year for many of the participants.