The versatility of Iowa State defensive back Ben Nikkel has paid off as a senior. Nikkel walked on at Iowa State after a standout career at McPherson College in Kansas and was a regular on four special teams units for ISU last season. He was awarded a scholarship at practice this week.

Nikkel says he always wanted to know if he could make it at the highest level.

Nikkel says the things available to players off the field at Iowa State have helped make him a better player.

Nikkel says special teams have been his way to contribute to the team.

The Cyclones open at home on September second against Northern Iowa.

AMES, Iowa – Iowa State University will launch the officially licensed Iowa State 1858 Vodka just in time for tailgating season. The university branded spirit comes as a result of collaboration between the University’s Athletics and Trademark Licensing departments, along with athletic media rights holder LEARFIELD/Cyclone Sports Properties, licensing agent CLC, Iowa Distilling Company and the We Will Collective.

“As we continue to grow our offerings to Iowa State fans, we are excited at the opportunity to collaborate with organizations like the Iowa Distilling Company and the We Will Collective that have direct ties to Iowa State and its community,” said Leesha Zimmerman, the University’s Director of Trademark Licensing. “Launching Iowa State 1858 Vodka with these partners alongside LEARFIELD and CLC illustrates the limitless potential we have in elevating the Cyclone fan experience.”

Iowa Distilling Company is one of the state’s largest native distilleries and bottles seven award winning spirits including its flagship Prairie Fire Cinnamon Whiskey, Saints ‘n Sinners Apple Pie, Zone Vodka, Steel Drum Rum, IDC Straight Bourbon, and Rocket Fuel.

“Iowa Distilling Company is proud to bottle a vodka that gives back to ISU Athletics and the We Will Collective,” said Kyle Doyle, president of Iowa Distilling Company. “We have created a spirit that Iowa State fans, supporters and alumni can be proud to enjoy at home or out with friends.”

The We Will Collective is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, governed by a volunteer board of Iowa State alums and former staff, who give their time, energy, and resources to help it become a force for good in the Iowa State community through NIL opportunities for student-athletes.

“We are thrilled to partner with Iowa Distilling, Iowa State and Learfield/Cyclone Sports Properties for this unique collaboration that positively impacts so many areas including the work we’re doing at We Will in the Central Iowa community with Cyclone student-athletes,” added Brent Blum, We Will Collective executive director.

“It is tremendous to see this type of partnership executed which brings together cross-discipline entities to provide ISU fans an elevated product experience with a home-grown connection,” said Chris Andrews, Cyclone Sports Vice President and General Manager. “Iowa State 1858 Vodka is a unique spirit offering that demonstrates the potential that lies within in true collaboration.”

Iowa State 1858 Vodka will be available at participating retailers. Visit the Iowa, https://iowadistilling.com/IowaState1858/ for the latest news and information.

About Iowa State University

Considered the nation’s most student-centered public research university, Iowa State University is home to nearly 30,000 students. With six undergraduate colleges, a graduate college, and a college of Veterinary medicine, students have access to more than 100 programs of study and 800 student clubs and organizations. It is known worldwide for its excellence in science and technology, discovery and innovation; and its student-centered culture with faculty and staff who are dedicated to student success.

About Iowa Distilling

Our spirits have a way of making you feel like you’re exactly where you want to be. And that’s no accident. We are locals. We’re from here and we’ve chosen to stay here. Not because we have to, but because this place is who we are. We’ve done our homework. We’ve put in the time. We were one of the first in the state to get a native-distilling license. That means our aged spirits are aged right here in Iowa. We’ve researched our craft tirelessly to make sure every bottle we produce is our best product, every time. But the real knowledge behind our operation comes from the fact that we are true Iowans. We know the farmers who grow the corn. The hands that distill and then distill again. And often times, the people behind the bar serving every last drop.

So, you can put our flagship Prairie Fire Cinnamon Whiskey, Saints ‘n Sinners Apple Pie, Zone Vodka, Steel Drum Rum, IDC Straight Bourbon and Rocket Fuel on your top shelf, if that’s your style. Introducing the latest spirit to join the Iowa Distilling family, Iowa State 1858 Vodka, the official sponsor of the Iowa State Cyclones. But regardless of where you keep the bottle, welcome to the family.

About We Will Collective

The We Will Collective is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, governed by a volunteer board. The board is made up of Iowa State alums and former staff, who give their time, energy, and resources to help We Will Collective become a force for good in our community. We believe that NIL should be used to grow the character of athletes and to benefit our communities. The We Will Collective is a way to uphold our values as Cyclones, while still competing in the new era of college athletics.

About LEARFIELD

LEARFIELD is a media, data, and technology services leader in intercollegiate athletics. The company unlocks the value of college sports for brands and fans through an omnichannel platform with innovative content and commerce solutions. LEARFIELD services include licensing and collegiate sports properties’ multimedia sponsorship management; publishing, audio, digital and social media; data analytics and insights; ticketing software; and ticket sales, premium seating, and fundraising services; branding; campus-wide business and sponsorship development. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for NACDA’s acclaimed LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup, recognizing athletic departments across all divisions.

Strong numbers and lots of returnees highlight the 2023 Atlantic cross country roster. Trojan head coach Dan Vargason said he is really pleased with the competition they will have throughout the lineup with such great participation.

On the girls side there is a big spot to fill with the loss of All-State runner Ava Rush, but the rest of the core returns led by Claire Pellett.

The boys return all of their varsity runners from last season and Coach Vargason loves the leadership that a number of guys have shown.

Coach Vargason said they really try to understand what kids want to get out of their experience and a great encouraging team atmosphere has naturally developed.

Ashley Mosier is joining the coaching staff this year and Coach Vargason said she is a great addition.

The Trojan cross country teams will open the season on August 26th at the Glenwood Invitational.

Irving, TX – Today, the Big 12 Conference has announced that tickets for the 2023 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship game will go on sale Saturday, August 12 at Noon CT.

New for this year, tickets will be available across nine price levels ranging from $99-$350. They can be purchased online only via SeatGeek at https://big12.us/3i564VW.

The 2023 Big 12 Football Championship Game will kickoff at 11 a.m. CT on Saturday, December 2 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Tickets will not be sold through the Big 12 Conference office or the AT&T Stadium Ticket Office. A limited supply of all-inclusive premium club seating will be available for purchase at a later date. For all-inclusive premium club information, please contact tickets@big12sports.com.

Each participating university will be allotted approximately 7,000 tickets, which will become available upon qualification for the championship and distributed by the respective participants’ ticket offices. Roughly 1,500 student tickets at $65 each will also be sold through the participants’ ticket offices only.