On December 7, the Truman State University Bulldogs and Tiffin University Dragons faced off in the fifth annual NCAA Division II America's Crossroads Bowl (ACB) thanks to a partnership between the South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority (CVA), the City of Hobart, the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC), and the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC).
The day began with a pregame party at the Hobart Art Theater in downtown Hobart, where they enjoyed a full-service bar.
The festivities ran from 9 a.m. to noon, creating an exciting atmosphere in preparation for the highly anticipated football game.
Shane Evans, the owner and operator of the Hobart Art Theater, expressed his excitement about hosting this beloved annual event, which has become a community highlight. At 1 p.m., the game kicked off, capping off a day full of anticipation and energy.
"Today, we're supporting the South Shore CVA in their effort to host a Division II bowl game here in Hobart," said Evans. "For the past few years, we've hosted a pregame party for families, teams, and players. This is a chance for them to get closer to the stadium, explore our downtown, and have some fun before heading to the game."
This marked Truman's fourth appearance in the bowl game. Truman's season started tough with an 0-3 record, but they managed to rally, winning seven of their last eight games. The Bulldogs were excited to be in the bowl, representing the culmination of a strong season.
"The folks in Hobart, the South Shore CVA, and the entire community in this region have tremendously supported this event," said Commissioner of the G-MAC Tom Daeger. "It's an outstanding opportunity for our student-athletes to have one more chance to compete for a title. Now in its fifth year and fourth time here in Hobart, this event has proven to be an incredible experience for student-athletes, giving many of them a final opportunity to compete in the sport they love."
Division II has a few bowl games, making this one of only a handful for Division II teams nationwide. This game served as the season's final match for both teams, with the winner being crowned champion of the Crossroads Bowl, one of just four such games in the country. For Truman State fan Chris Hall, this event held significant meaning.
"We're ready to play the Tiffin Dragons and see how the game goes. Hopefully, we come out with a victory," said Hall. "This looks like an amazing crowd that traveled in. Truman State has a strong family presence—we travel well and come out to support our kids. That's the beautiful thing about Division II football and the Truman State family. We're all about family, football, and cheering on our kids. We're hoping for a great game but want the Truman State Bulldogs to come out on top."
Jim Naumovich, the GLVC commissioner, visited the region about six years ago. Since then, the event has become a staple in Northwest Indiana, with this year's exciting additions, including the Pearl Harbor tribute pregame and the "Kick it to Win it: Score a Field Goal and Feast on Free Jimmy John's for a Year!" contest.
"I think this Bowl game gives the Hobart community, along with youth and high school players, a chance to see college football up close and personal," said Olsica. "Both conferences have done a great job promoting the event and collaborating with the local community to make it enjoyable for college players and our youth and residents. It's been a powerful partnership overall."
Mayor Josh Huddlestun highlighted Hobart's rich football tradition and expressed excitement about hosting the event.
"We're just happy to have them back in Hobart," said Huddleston. "It's great for our community and a wonderful way to showcase what we have here—our services, facilities, and community spirit. It's also nice that they pay tribute to our armed forces and Pearl Harbor, and the festivities surrounding the entire bowl are exciting."
While game day was the highlight, visiting the elementary schools on Friday left a lasting impression on the players. There was hope that some kids could attend the game with their families to enjoy Division II football.
The game ended with Truman State winning 29-10 over Tiffin. The Bulldogs secured the victory with a strong performance throughout the game.
"It's always a successful event," said Evans. "It's great to bring people into town, like those from Ohio and Missouri this year. Not only does it highlight what we do as a hometown venue, but it also shines a light on the entire Region. Northwest Indiana gets to showcase some of the incredible things happening here."
For more information about Hobart and to see all the programming offered each week, from concerts and comedy shows to private events visit cityofhobart.org. Click here for more information on the Tiffin Dragons and here for more information on the Truman State Bulldogs.
For more information about the South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority and all of the fun events its bringing to the Region, visit southshorecva.com.
