Center senior named 2018 Spud Bowl Queen

Brisa Castillo, Center High School, is the 2018 Spud Bowl Queen. Courtesy Photo by Linda Relyea

ALAMOSA—Brisa Castillo, a senior at Center High School, was crowned the 72nd Spud Bowl Queen during halftime of the Adams State University vs Dixie State football game on Nov. 10.
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 Queen. 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 award scholarships to attend Adams State consisting of $1,000 to each contestant and $2,000 to the Spud Bowl Queen.
The 2018 candidates were: Emma Gilmore, Alamosa High School; Brianna Martinez, Antonito High School; Kaitlynn Martin, Centauri High School; Zilah Montoya, Centennial High School; Brisa Castillo, Center High School; Zoe Midgett, Creede High School; Hannah Velasquez, Del Norte High School; Trinady Gonzales, Monte Vista High School; Hayley Crowther, Sanford High School; Alliyah Garcia, Sangre de Cristo High School; Gracie Burkhart, Sargent High School; and Brooke Paine, Sierra Grande High School.
Judges for this year’s contest were Jason Tillman and Matt Seger, Colorado Potato Administrative Committee, and Maria Valdez, Adams State accounting technician II.
Please see more photos on Page 2A.