A recent AC/GC graduate got to take place in one of the biggest parts of Iowa high school football.

Chargers 2025 graduate Jathan South was chosen earlier in the year to take part in the Shrine Bowl. Chargers Head Football Coach Cody Matthewson shares that when individuals are chosen for the Shrine Bowl, it’s not just their prowess on the field that is reviewed.

“You know, Jathan did a lot of community service, and he did things around the school in regards to helping out others. And it’s almost one of those things where the Shrine Bowl is not one of the things, it is THE thing. It is something that is bigger than yourself. It’s an opportunity for you to give back to the game. And he had the ability on the field that obviously stands out to him being somebody that is picked by the Shrine Bowl coaches staff.”

Unfortunately, South suffered an injury during track season that left him unable to physically compete during the Shrine Bowl. He does share that the coach for this year’s event talked with him after the injury, and South was able to still participate as a play caller for the offensive coordinator for the game. South adds that there is much more to the Shrine Bowl than just the game though.

“I mean, we did so many events and after all, it’s all made to support those Shriners children in the hospital. We got to meet all those kids and it’s just crazy how they all tell their story about their struggles. I mean, I thought I had struggles getting injured, and then they’re out there with two limbs running around the field playing catch with us. So I mean, that really just inspired me. And that’s something that a lot of people don’t even realize about the Shrine Bowl is that it’s for that cause. Our team raised over almost $100,000 to support the Shriners Children’s Hospital. And that’s just crazy when you get to finally see those kids and the impact you have for their lives.”

South tells those who want to work for an opportunity to participate in the Shrine Bowl that for the on the field portion, it’s important to listen to your coaches and try to play the best ball that you can, but that the place you can have the most control on what is considered for participation is your activities off the field. He explains that players should do as much as they can to help not only their schools, but their communities whenever they can.