The High School Spirit Challenge was made in hopes to receive more recognition from high school athletic directors and students. This program provides valuable funds to support Iowa high school athletics and thank those schools who support the Iowa Games.

 

Based on school enrollment, four schools will each be eligible for a $1,000 grant. Within each enrollment size category, the school with the highest number of athletes registered for the Summer Iowa Games will receive funds to support their athletic program.  Each time an athlete (ages 19 & under) registers to participate in the Summer Games, they will be asked to declare the high school they support. This will count as one (1) entry for that school. Results will be tabulated and winners will be announced at the end of the Summer Games.

 

The program will start when the Summer Iowa Games registration opens on March 1st and concludes when registration closes for the last Summer Iowa Games event in late July. All Iowa preparatory, private, and public high schools are automatically eligible to participate in the High School Spirit Challenge—no enrollment required. Grant eligibility is based on athlete participation, with minimum registration requirements by classification: 4A schools must register at least 20 athletes, 3A - 15 athletes, 2A - 10 athletes, and 1A - 5 athletes.

In case of a tie, the school with the most sports represented within their participation numbers will be awarded 1st place. 

 

Based upon enrollment, all schools will be placed in one of four categories:

• 4A
• 3A
• 2A
• 1A

Click here to see what division your school is in! 

*Iowa High School Athletic Association Track and Field Classifications were used to determine divisions. Divisions are set for 2026. If you have concerns about your division please contact your athletic director and ask them to reach out to the Iowa Games staff.