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Nominations Open for Pioneer Heroes Game

Nominations for Iowa’s Hero are now open through Oct. 10. Fans can nominate everyday citizens in Iowa who have performed extraordinary acts of heroism.

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Iowa City, Iowa -- The 2025 Pioneer Heroes Game -- set for 11 a.m. (CT) on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, in Lincoln, Nebraska -- will continue the rich tradition of recognizing and celebrating local heroes who exemplify the goal of positively impacting their community and inspiring others.

One citizen-hero from each state and team will be selected and honored at the Pioneer Heroes Game in Lincoln. The winners will receive VIP treatment as special guests, with on-field recognition and their names inscribed on the Heroes Trophy, which goes to the winning team of the annual contest. 

Nominations for Iowa’s Hero are now open through Oct. 10, 2025. Fans are encouraged to nominate everyday citizens in Iowa who have performed extraordinary acts of heroism.

“We are honored to continue our collaboration with Pioneer and the University of Nebraska in presenting the Heroes Game -- an annual celebration of character, competition, and community. More than just a football game, the Heroes Game is a platform to spotlight everyday heroes whose selfless contributions uplift our states. With deep agricultural roots in both Iowa and Nebraska, this partnership with Pioneer reflects the shared values of our region.”

Henry B. and Patricia B. Director of Athletics Chair Beth Goetz

“Agriculture plays an important role across Iowa and Nebraska,” said Todd Frazier, VP, U.S. Marketing, Corteva Agriscience. “That’s why we’re excited to continue sponsoring the annual Heroes Game – honoring those local heroes that live and work in the communities Pioneer serves every day is one small way we can express our appreciation.” 

Pioneer, a current partner of both the Iowa Hawkeyes and Nebraska Cornhuskers, is a multi-year title sponsor of the Heroes Game. The ongoing relationship between Pioneer and Iowa is overseen by Learfield’s Hawkeye Sports Properties, the University’s athletics multimedia rightsholder and locally based team. The ongoing relationship between Pioneer and Nebraska is overseen by Huskers Athletic Partners, a Playfly Sports Property, the University’s athletics multimedia rightsholder.

The Hawkeyes open the 2025 season Aug. 30, hosting UAlbany at 5 p.m. (CT) on Duke Slater Field at Kinnick Stadium.