Great Falls — This past Saturday, January 11, in San Antonio, Texas, Broden Molen from Great Falls High made history as Montana’s first-ever high school football player to participate in the annual All-American Bowl. This prestigious game features the top 100 high school players from across the country, and Molen earned his spot by showcasing his skills as a long snapper at a competitive camp last summer.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Molen stated, “It means the world. It’s just an absolutely phenomenal experience to know that I can kind of represent my whole state rather than just my local community.” He regards himself as a “trailblazer,” realizing the importance of paving the way for future players from Montana. “Kind of leading the way, grinding out a new path for people in the future to be able to follow and strive for that goal,” he shared.
During the fall season, Molen’s team, the Bison, finished with a record of 6-4, ending with a loss in the Class AA playoffs. However, he was fully aware that he would be partaking in the All-American Bowl. The moment he stepped onto the field on Saturday, it struck him how significant the experience was. “It’s happening, this is like a real thing,” he exclaimed. “Like I’m actually in this game. I’m doing this right now.”
Molen had the chance to compete against the best high school players in the nation, which he found beneficial for preparing for college football. “These kids are the top of the top in their position group,” he noted, emphasizing that the caliber of talent matched his own. He commented on Montana’s level of competition, saying, “Montana football is still in the top of the top.”
His family was present at the game, which added to his joy. “Being able to see my parents’, siblings’, grandparents’ faces all just like smiling, looking at me, just knowing that they’re there cheering me on…,” he remarked, highlighting the support he received from loved ones during this unforgettable experience.
Molen expressed gratitude for the opportunity and hopes that future players from Montana can also experience the thrill of being an All-American football player. “I hope that someone in the future will be able to have that. That same experience I had going down, playing in that game,” he concluded.
