After a long career with the Kansas City Royals it was announced on Tuesday that Alex Gordon will light the cauldron at the 2021 Cornhusker State Games Opening Ceremonies.
“Alex Gordon is a Nebraska icon, so we felt it was appropriate to break from the mystery torchlighter tradition and share the news this year,” said Opening Ceremonies Committee Chairman Dave Tinius.
According to Tinius, the NSC staff recommended releasing the news to give Cornhusker State Games athletes more time to plan for the Opening Ceremonies, which will take place Friday, July 16 at 8 p.m. at Seacrest Field in Lincoln. Gordon will meet with athletes prior to the ceremonies on the adjacent Den Hartog Field, where Gordon played many high school and American Legion baseball games before becoming a decorated Husker and Kansas City Royals player.
The meet-and-greet will take place from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. near home plate of the storied, and recently refurbished, Lincoln baseball stadium. Staging for the Parade of Athletes will take place around the outfield warning track following the meet-and-greet.
Gordon was a three-time all-state baseball player at Lincoln Southeast High School where he hit .483, with 25 homers and 112 RBIs. As a senior he was also an All-State defensive back in football, leading the state with seven interceptions.
He finished a three-year career as a Husker (2003-2005) in the career top 10 in eight offensive categories, was a two-time first team All-American, two-time Big 12 Player of the Year and won the 2005 Golden Spikes Award as the NCAA’s best overall player. He was drafted second overall by the Kansas City Royals in 2005.
The Opening Ceremonies officially kicks off competition in more than 70 sports in the 37th annual Cornhusker State Games. Most events will be held July 16-25th and officials expect more than 10,000 participants. Those interested can find information and register at CornhuskerStateGames.com.