Iowa Pork Celebrates HS Football's Unsung Heroes with Hog Awards
November 26, 2024
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) honored seven standout high school football players during the state championships for their invaluable yet often overlooked contributions. The prestigious Hog of the Game Award recognizes the top offensive lineman in each of the seven state championship games. Sponsored by IPPA and presented by the Iowa High School Sports Network (IHSSN), the awards celebrate players whose hard work and determination drive their teams’ success.
Each recipient will receive a personalized trophy upon graduation, while their schools will be awarded commemorative plaques for display in their trophy cases. The presentations took place after each state title game on November 21-22 at the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls.
"Iowa pig farmers understand the importance of hard work and teamwork in achieving success, and those same values apply to high school football," said Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman who serves as president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. "Offensive linemen are the unsung heroes of the game. They protect the quarterback, open up running lanes, and lead with communication and strategy. We are proud to honor these young athletes for their dedication and perseverance."
This year marks the sixth anniversary of the HOG Award, with the following players earning the 2024 honors:
- 8-PLAYER: Caleb Gravenish, Remsen St. Mary’s
- CLASS A: Aiden Osbahr, Tri-Center
- CLASS 1A: Ryder Slifer, Grundy Center
- CLASS 2A: Micah Van Beek, West Lyon
- CLASS 3A: Brody Schmidt, Dubuque Wahlert
- CLASS 4A: Drew Figgins, North Polk
- CLASS 5A: Cael Roberts, Southeast Polk
Pictures of the seven award presentations are available at this link. Representing the Iowa Pork Producers Association in the photos are: 8-Player, Dan Sheehan; A and 1A, Ben Schmaling and his son Grayson; 2A and 3A, Rachel Fishback; 4A, Kevin Hall; 5A, Caleb Hogan.