Nominate an Athlete for the All State Game

The excitement is palpable as Shannon Currier steps into his role as an official coach for the 2026 All State Game, tasked with shaping the future of elite youth athletes. With his extensive background in coaching and genuine passion for mentoring young talent, Currier embodies the principles and mission of the All State Game: to uplift, celebrate, and enable the most promising athletes to shine on a grand stage.

Hailing from Cosmos, Minnesota, Currier’s journey in football began as a quarterback at Hamline University, where he not only honed his athletic skills but also grasped the fundamentals of leadership and teamwork that would shape his coaching philosophy. After earning his degree in physical education in 1993, Currier embarked on a coaching career that would traverse several institutions and divisions.

Currier first made his mark at Concordia University, where he served as an offensive coordinator before being appointed head coach in 2000. During his initial tenure, he laid the groundwork for a successful program, setting records and ultimately becoming the Golden Bears’ all-time wins leader by 2018. His coaching skills was evident as he led Concordia to its first-ever postseason appearance in 2003, culminating in a Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Championship—a feat that garnered him the NSIC Coach of the Year honors.

In 2021, Currier’s vision for player development took a significant leap forward when he produced Concordia’s second-ever NFL Draft pick, Chris Garrett, who distinguished himself as the NCAA Division II leader in sacks while also setting the record for most fumbles forced. This pivotal moment not only reflects Currier’s ability to nurture talent but also underlines his commitment to the holistic development of athletes—an essential value upheld by the All State Game.

Beyond his coaching accolades, Currier’s varied career path highlights his versatility and commitment to the growth and development of youth sports. After a five-year stint at Truman State University, Currier ventured into the realm of digital media with iHigh.com, where he played a vital role in building a platform that reached a staggering 1.5 million Minnesotans, effectively promoting high school sports across the state. This experience underscores his belief in the importance of exposure and opportunity for young athletes—core tenets of the All State Game’s mission.

As Currier prepares for the All State Game, he expresses a deep enthusiasm for reconnecting with young athletes. “I have a lot of respect for the leadership at Concordia and the environment it fosters. I’m excited to work with the current players and help them realize their full potential. The All State Game represents an opportunity to bring together elite athletes from across the state, fostering camaraderie, competition, and growth,” Currier explains.

It is this spirit of cooperation and commitment to the athletes that resonates deeply with the All State Game’s values. The event aims not just to showcase talent but to ensure that every accepted athlete has the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial constraints. Currier embodies this ethos, striving to break down barriers and ensure that passion and dedication are the cornerstones of athletic participation.

In Shannon Currier, the All State Game has found a leader whose dedication mirrors its mission. His extensive background, unwavering commitment to athlete development, and passion for the sport make him an ideal coach to mentor, inspire, and guide the next generation of elite youth athletes. As the date for the 2026 All State Game draws nearer, one can only imagine the lasting impact he will have on the athletes who will step onto the field under his guidance—an impact that will resonate far beyond the game itself.

With Shannon Currier at the helm, the All State Game is poised to not only celebrate talent but to forge connections, cultivate character, and unleash potential among youth athletes, ensuring a bright future for the sport.