Final Weekend Caps Successful 2026 Cornhusker State Games

Lincoln, Neb. (July 20, 2026)—The 2026 Cornhusker State Games concluded Sunday following its second and final weekend of competition, with events taking place across Nebraska, including Lincoln, Omaha, Weeping Water, Columbus, Grand Island, North Platte and other communities. More than 7,800 athletes participated in this year’s Games, continuing the tradition of bringing thousands of athletes from across Nebraska and beyond together for a statewide celebration of amateur sports.

The final weekend of competition showcased the continued momentum of the Cornhusker State Games, with several sports posting record or increased participation, returning champions defending their titles and athletes delivering historic performances across Nebraska.

Hockey remained one of the Cornhusker State Games’ largest sports, drawing more than 950 participants from 10 states: Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Virginia. The three-day tournament featured a record 54 teams competing across multiple divisions. The total marked an increase of 18 teams from 2025, highlighting the sport’s rapid growth and rising popularity at the Cornhusker State Games.

Track and Field also continued its steady growth in 2026, attracting 612 participants—72 more than in 2025. The competition was held at a new venue, UBT Stadium at Northwest High School in Lincoln, where athletes of all ages competed over two days in a variety of track and field events and divisions. The increase in participation, combined with the move to a new facility, marked another successful year for one of the State Games’ fastest-growing sports.

Powerlifting also delivered one of the weekend’s most memorable performances. Phillip Ward of Waterloo, Nebraska, set a Nebraska state record in the bench press for his age group and weight class after bench pressing 176 pounds. The 80-year-old’s remarkable lift is also expected to be recognized as an unofficial world record. Overall, powerlifting enjoyed another successful year, attracting more than 155 participants and surpassing its 2025 participation total.

Participation numbers weren’t the only success story from the weekend. Open Water Swimming featured another standout performance from Cassie Jahn, who captured her second consecutive gold medal in the one-mile race. Jahn won the event in the women’s 25-29 age division in 2025 and successfully defended her title this year while competing in the women’s 30-34 division.

The Cornhusker State Games featured several repeat champions, including two competitors in .22 Rifle Silhouette. Lynn Miner earned a second consecutive silver medal in the junior division, while Elijah Rischling claimed his second straight gold medal in the open division.

For a complete list of results, visit the CSG RESULTS page. Those interested can still purchase CSG merchandise until August 31 HERE. Photos of most CSG events can be found HERE.

Athletes that took home gold can qualify for the 2028 State Games of America, that will take place July 14-18 in Colorado Springs.

The Cornhusker State Games is conducted by the Nebraska Sports Council. Platinum partners include Grand Island Tourism, Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center and FMNE Insurance. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.