One of Marion County’s stand-outs on the gridiron in 2010 will be the lone representative from local schools in this year’s annual Shrine Bowl football game in Ames today.  Kyle Nikkel, a quarterback from Pella Christian High School, will be playing for the South squad in the 39th annual game that showcases pre-college athletes from across the state.

Nikkel threw for the second most yards in Class 2A this past season with 1901 yards, completing over 60 percent of his passes; while throwing 21 touchdowns – to just four interceptions.  The 6-6, 220-pounder signed to play at Morningside College earlier this year and will join the Mustangs in the fall.  

Kyle Nikkel will try and provide a lift to a South squad that trails the North 20-17-1 in the all-time series and was shut-out 24-0 last season by their northern counterparts.  

The 2011 Iowa Shrine Bowl kick off at 7:00 p.m. tonight at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.