The Iowa Wave from the Kinnick Stadium stands is one of the greatest traditions in college football. The Hawkeyes’ relationship with UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital, however, extends beyond The Wave.

Since 2009, groups of Stead patients have been Kid Captains for the Hawkeyes. On Tuesday, the 2022 Kid Captains were announced.

A group of 12 current and former patients are this fall’s Kid Captains.

“We are so excited to share these incredible stories of strength and courage. These kids have such fierce determination and an undeniable strength of spirit. It is an honor and a privilege to be able to care for them all on their health care journey. We congratulate all of them on their selection to this year’s Kid Captain team,” Pam Johnson-Carlson, chief administrative officer of UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital said in a release.

Each child’s story will be highlighted during the football season. All 12 Kid Captains and their families will be invited to Kids Day at Kinnick Stadium this Saturday for a special behind-the-scenes tour.

The 2022 Kid Captains are:

Adam Arp, 15, Williamsburg, Iowa
Eli Belser, 7, Elkader, Iowa
Elyna Clements, 9, Camanche, Iowa
Cormac Faley, 12, Asbury, Iowa
Eve Jimenez, 8, Davenport, Iowa
Tate Manahl, 8, Cedar Falls, Iowa
Dylan McGivern, 10, Dysart, Iowa
Carver Meiners, 8, Polk City, Iowa
Gavin Miller, 13, Ogden, Iowa
Anjali Sahu, 6, Atkins, Iowa
Audrey Schneller, 7, Waukee, Iowa
Veronica Sullivan, 7, Marion, Iowa