The Spud Bowl tradition began in 1946, when potato farmers in the Valley were asked to contribute sacks of spuds to the college, which, in turn, were converted into cash to supplement the athletic program. The tradition and spirit have continued, and Spud Bowl remains a highlight of each football season.
Each year, San Luis Valley schools are asked to nominate a senior as a candidate for Spud Bowl Queen. The candidates are interviewed during the morning of Spud Bowl by a panel of judges, and a winner is then selected and announced at halftime of the football game. The Colorado Potato Administrative Committee and Adams State offer one semester tuition scholarships to each candidate, with the student selected as Spud Bowl Queen receiving a one-year tuition, room, and board scholarship to Adams State University.