Dakota State University has named the Maas and Oftedal families as honorary captains for the 11th annual Ag Bowl.

The families will be honored this Saturday, when the Trojans host Nebraska Wesleyan. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. at Blankley Field at Brian Kern Family Stadium.

Both families have deep agricultural roots near Wentworth, with farming traditions spanning multiple generations.

The Maas family began farming north of Wentworth in the early 1900s. Today, Gale Maas farms with his sons Brian and Jarrod, raising corn, soybeans and cattle. The family’s fifth generation is now helping on the farm.

The Oftedal family’s farming tradition began in 1950, when Harry and Ruth Oftedal established a farm north of Wentworth. The operation has continued through their son Jeff and grandson Matt, with Harry’s great-grandsons now involved.

The families also have a long connection to Dakota State. Seven members have attended the university, including Diana Maas, Abby Oftedal, Matt Oftedal, Brian Maas and Amanda Maas.

Two family members, Harry Oftedal and Bob Miller, also played football at DSU when it was known as General Beadle State Teachers College.

The Ag Bowl celebrates the agricultural community and its impact on the Madison area. The event includes free admission and a meal for farmers and producers.