Cody Hipp '18, a linebacker for the Knox College Prairie Fire football team, has been selected to play for Team Stars & Stripes in the 20th annual Tazón De Estrellas (Bowl of the Stars) in Mexico.

Hipp, a biology major, is one of 40 standout student-athletes who will represent Team Stars & Stripes in the game on Saturday, December 16. He and the team's other Americans were nominated by their respective football coaches, and they will play against the CONADEIP All-Stars from Mexico's private universities.

Hipp concluded his senior football season at Knox with 44 total tackles, including three tackles for a loss and three sacks. He also forced a fumble for a Prairie Fire team that went 5-5, their best season since 2002. He was a leader on a defense that allowed only 16 passing touchdowns on the season and picked up 22 total sacks.

Head football coach Damon Tomeo said he is extremely proud of Hipp. "Cody has been a great team leader from his linebacker position in his four years at Knox," said Tomeo. "This is a great opportunity for him to represent his family, our team, and the United States in this game."

Hipp's teammates on Team Stars & Stripes were selected from Central College, Concordia University Chicago, Denison University, Franklin College, Grove City College, John Carroll University, Kalamazoo College, Kean University, Lake Forest College, North Park University, Ripon College, Salve Regina University, Siena Heights University, Simpson College, and Trinity College.

The Tazón de Estrellas is the focal point for the Global Football Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit initiative, which assists athletes in meeting the expenses associated with traveling overseas to realize their dreams of competing against other American football enthusiasts and experiencing different cultures.