West Wins Fifth Consecutive Shrine Game in Great Falls

The West team secured its fifth consecutive victory in Montana's 78th Annual Shrine Game held at Great Falls Memorial Stadium, defeating the East 14-7 in a defensively intense matchup. Key plays included a 26-yard touchdown pass from Merek Mihelish to Dylan Almquist just before halftime and a 6-yard touchdown run by Luke Oxarart in the third quarter, while the East responded with a touchdown pass from Stockton Oxarart to Luke Kelley. The game featured strong defensive efforts, including a crucial goal-line interception by Mason Arlington and a game-sealing sack by Brady Armstrong. Frenchtown's Brody Hardy was named the Player of the Game for the West, who maintained their dominance despite the East's late attempts to tie the score. The event raises funds for Spokane Shriner’s Hospital and showcases top-area athletes from across Montana. Similar all-star football games in Nebraska and Kansas also highlighted regional talents, with the East breaking a losing streak in Nebraska and the West winning the Kansas Shrine Bowl, further emphasizing the tradition of all-star football events across the region.