By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The mythology surrounding Friday night’s football game between Great Bend and Hays continues to grow ahead of kickoff. With the recent completion of a new high school and athletic facilities as part of a $143 million bond, USD 489 has no intention of moving the game to Fort Hays State University’s Lewis Field. Still, Hays High Activities Director Chris Drees said there is enough space for all fans.
“No, we’re not going to sell out,” he said. “However, you can purchase your tickets in advance on Gofans, which ultimately will get you into the game faster than it would be waiting in line to pay. If they’re looking to speed up the process of gaining access to the stadium, purchasing in advance just makes it a little bit easier.”
Seating for approximately 1,000 additional fans will be added for Friday’s game, including extra bleachers on the visitor’s side. Drees said fans are welcome to bring bag chairs, and there are also plenty of places to stand.
“We have an elevated sidewalk that goes around basically the whole north end of the field,” he said. “That’s a great spot to view the game from if they want to stand.”
Portable restrooms will also be available on the visitor’s side. The athletic center on the west side of the complex will have concessions and bathrooms on the main and third floors.
The hype for Friday’s game began last year when Great Bend defeated Hays 21-0 during the regular season as part of a 9-1 start. The Indians avenged that loss with a 19-14 win in Great Bend during round two of the Class 5A playoffs. Great Bend has opened the 2026 campaign at 6-0 with a series of convincing wins. Hays enters Friday’s game at 5-1 with wins against then No. 1 Derby and a major Oklahoma program. The Indians lost 10-8 to Manhattan in week three of the season.
“It should be a great game,” Drees said. “There are going to be a lot of people here, and we’re looking forward to it. I know this game has been circled on calendars for probably a year now. We’re really looking forward to having (Great Bend fans).”
Drees said places to stand at the new facility double or triple the stated seating capacity. Hays High games have already drawn attendances of approximately 3,000 fans with plenty of room to spare.
Friday’s kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Hays. Listen to Mike Hesher and Shawn Behr with live broadcast on B 104 3 The Point. The game will also be streamed by Kiowa County Media Center Sports.