Submitted Photo South Prairie eighth grader Burke Rauschenberger is pictured with Jennifer Hubrig from United Community Bank.

Burke Rauschenberger, an eighth grader at South Prairie Public School, conquered the United Community Bank Halftime Kicker Challenge during the Des Lacs-Burlington vs. Velva football game on Sept. 16. By making the kick, South Prairie’s fine arts program received a $1,000 donation on Rauschenberger’s behalf.

All attendees of the football game had the opportunity to put their name in the bucket to be drawn for a chance to take on the challenge to win a $100 cash prize for themselves and a donation for the school. Burke Rauschenberger was the lucky individual drawn to give the challenge a try, which consisted of completing a field goal during halftime of the game.

While he didn’t come prepared with the right foot gear, he calmly rose to the challenge, making the kick from the extra point line, with the crowd cheering him on. Burke is the quarterback of the junior high football team and the son of Gabe and Karlee Rauschenberger.

“We are presently preparing for our regional competition one-act play and winning the money from the Halftime Challenge is a much-needed gift to enable us to purchase costumes and set pieces, said Paula Rauschenberger, South Prairie speech and drama coach. “We are extremely grateful to United Community Bank for the generosity of the funds for our up-and-coming drama program!”

United Community Bank launched the UCB Halftime Challenge with the goal to create a fun and unique opportunity to raise donations for non-athletic needs within the school. Halftime challenges at both Des Lacs Burlington and South Prairie High Schools will take place during the boys and girls high school basketball season as well.