Free State High lineman Mikel Ruder has been selected to play in the 2007 Kansas Shrine Bowl on July 28 at Fort Hays State University in Hays.

Ruder is one of just 68 Kansas prep players tapped to play in this year’s game, a charity all-star event that benefits the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Players are chosen via balloting by Kansas sports media members and the annual Shrine Bowl coaching staffs.

Ruder anchored the offensive and defensive lines last fall for the Firebirds, who finished 11-1 and advanced to the semifinals of the Class 6A state playoffs.

He has yet to make a decision on his college destination.