The Spud Bowl tradition began in 1946, when the potato farmers in the Valley were asked to contribute sacks of spuds to the University, which, in turn, were converted into cash to supplement the athletic program. The tradition and spirit have continued, and Spud Bowl remains a highlight of each football season.
Each year, San Luis Valley high schools are asked to nominate a senior candidate for Spud Bowl. The candidates are interviewed during the morning by a panel of judges, and the winner is selected and announced at halftime of the football game. The Colorado Potato Administrative Committee and Adams State University Foundation award scholarships to attend Adams State consisting of $1,000 to each contestant and $2,000 to the Spud Bowl Queen.
Judges for the 2019 Spud Bowl were Jason Tillman and Roger Mix, Colorado Potato Administrative Committee, and Maria Valdez, Adams State accounting technician II.
