IOWA FALLS, IOWA (May 30, 2025) — Make-A-Wish® Iowa is excited to announce that Wishes on Deck: An All-Star Softball Game Making Iowa Wishes Come True will take place Sunday, June 22, at the Legion Field, located just west of the National Guard Armory at 217 Georgetown Road, Iowa Falls.
This year’s event is especially meaningful for the Iowa Falls community, as hometown athlete Karson Sharar will take the field for Team SWARM — returning to play in front of friends, family, and fans in the town where his journey began.
“Welcoming Karson back to Iowa Falls for this year’s game is a full-circle moment,” said Sara Kurovski, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa. “He’s an incredible athlete and a role model who embodies the heart of this event. We are so grateful for him and all our players for helping grant more wishes in Iowa.”
Wishes on Deck brings together beloved athletes from Iowa’s two largest universities in a friendly yet competitive game to raise funds to grant wishes for children facing critical illnesses.
Team SWARM (University of Iowa) features: Seth Anderson, Rhys Dakin, Aaron Graves, Mark Gronowski, TJ Hall, Deshaun Lee, Zach Lutmer, Kamari Moulton, Xavier Nwankpa, Karson Sharar, and Kaden Wetjen.
Team WeWill (Iowa State University) features: Caleb Bacon, Rocco Becht, Ben Brahmer, Caden Matson, Will McLaughlin, Easton Miller, Tyler Moore, Domonique Orange, Jamison Patton, and Chase Sowell.
Throughout the event, Iowa wish kids will share their inspiring stories. In addition to top-tier softball action, fans of all ages will have the chance to enjoy great food, bid on exciting auction items, and collect autographs from their favorite athletes.
Want to give your favorite team an edge? Donate now at WishesOnDeck.com/donate and select your team — the first to raise $25,000 will earn an in-game advantage.
The event was created by Ryan Harklau, Make-A-Wish Iowa board member and former Iowa State football player, and Dallas Clark, former University of Iowa and Indianapolis Colts stand-out. Their vision: a traveling game that brings hope and joy to communities across the state.
“This event has always been more than just softball,” said Harklau. “Taking the game to different towns across Iowa gives people a chance to see how wishes change lives right in their own backyards. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors.”
Tickets, donation options and event details are available at WishesOnDeck.com.
