Playing in the Shrine Bowl is a family tradition for the Weinmaster family.

Kyle Weinmaster, a senior defensive lineman for Free State High, will be the third member of his immediate family to play in the annual postseason charity game.

“My dad told me that my team had to win because his team and my brother’s team won it,” Weinmaster said.

Kyle’s father, Kerry, played in the Shrine Bowl in Nebraska. He went on to play college football for the Nebraska Cornhuskers from 1976 to 1979.

Kyle’s brother, Philip, was a standout lineman at Free State. He played in the Kansas Shrine Bowl in 2005. Philip is currently a sophomore defensive lineman at Baker University.

“I remember when my brother went to the Shrine Bowl, he was in top shape,” Weinmaster said. “I’ve been lifting and running sprints outside. I’m going to make sure I’m in good shape for that game.”

Weinmaster was part of arguably the best defense in Free State history. The Firebirds only surrendered 12.5 points per game last season, including three shutouts.

Weinmaster was a critical part of the massive Firebird defensive line, which also included seniors Christian Ballard and Mikel Ruder. The defense only gave up 129.33 rushing yards per game in the regular season.

“There are so many people on our team who could have been selected,” Weinmaster said. “I’m just happy I’m one of them.”

Weinmaster would like to play football next year in college. He recently returned from a trip to Baker. He said he had a good chance of starting for the Wildcats on the defensive line.

He said he would also consider Emporia State and Wayne State (Neb.) College. Weinmaster said he’d like to make a decision by the end of the week.