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It’s your chance to shine!
Three participants will receive scholarships to support their post-high school education up to $1,300 while making unforgettable memories along the way! Join with friends, or step in on your own and meet an incredible group of young women. This program celebrates students who lead with integrity, serve, and strive for excellence. It honors young women in the Hayward Area who demonstrate character, leadership, volunteerism and commitment – who are ready to represent our community with pride! If you’re currently a freshman, sophomore, or junior at a Hayward Area High School, you’re eligible to participate in the 2026-27 program. Step up, stand out, and invest in your future!
Information Booths:
Information Booth at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University Health/Career Fair
Wednesday, March 4, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Information Booth at The Social Kitchen & Cocktails
Wednesday, April 29, 5–7 p.m.
Information Booth at Backroads Coffee
Sunday, May 16, 10 a.m.–Noon.
Stop by and receive a free voucher toward a beverage at Backroads Coffee!
Online Applications Open March 1st, 2026
To Apply: Submit an Online Application which includes a Candidate Profile, Essay, 2 References, & Signed Contract
Applications are Due Monday, May 18, 2026
FAQs regarding the Scholarship Program
2026 Musky Queen Schedule of Events
Musky Queen: Macie Reinke
Daughter of Angie and Travis Reinke, Macie is a talented artist, dedicated volunteer, and accomplished student entering her junior year. A National Honor Society member and Student of the Month honoree, she has showcased her creativity through the Student Art Show while excelling in golf, photography, reading, and competitive dance. Her passion for community shines through her volunteer work at the after-school program, dance recitals, and the Hayward Sports Center, where she uplifts those around her. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new artistic styles, photography, and sports. With aspirations to study law, Macie hopes to use her platform as Musky Queen to inspire young girls and serve as a positive role model, embodying leadership and local pride.
Alexis Shober
Daughter of Amanda Suino and Raymond Shober II, Alexis is a dedicated and well-rounded student entering her senior year. A National Honor Society member and Student of the Month honoree, she has excelled in band, basketball, and track, earning letters and competing at the state level in band for two years. Her leadership is evident through her involvement in figure skating, soccer, FBLA as a reporter, Spanish club, and the junior class board. Beyond academics and athletics, Alexis devotes time to her community—volunteering as a learn-to-skate instructor, assisting with FBLA initiatives, and supporting local events. She balances these commitments with work and enjoys swimming, biking, lifting, reading, and spending time with friends. With aspirations of a career in medicine, Alexis hopes to use her platform as Musky Queen to champion community events and raise funds for causes that make a meaningful impact in Hayward.
Emma Blinkwolt
Daughter of Greg and Karen Blinkwolt, Emma is a dedicated and ambitious student entering her senior year with a strong commitment to leadership, athletics, and community involvement. A Student of the Month honoree and participant in the Heart O’ North Conference Leadership Summit, she is actively engaged in girls’ golf, softball, FBLA, the junior class board, yearbook, and figure skating. Emma enjoys giving back through her church, coaching learn-to-skate classes and mentoring younger students. She balances her busy schedule with work as a hostess, kennel assistant, and sales associate, while finding joy in spending time with friends and her dogs. With aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, Emma has dreamed of being Musky Queen since she was a child. If selected, she hopes to represent Hayward with pride, attend more community events, and inspire all generations through her passion for the area.
Ariana Hendricks
Daughter of Dan and Cheryl Hendricks, Ariana is a passionate and multi-talented student entering her senior year and dedicated to academics, agriculture, and community service. She has earned first-place awards in county and area speech competitions and proudly holds the title of Spooner Rodeo Queen 2024. Her musical talents have led her to perform in state choir solo ensemble and participate in UW-Superior’s choir honor gathering. A high-honors student, Ariana is deeply involved in volunteering—serving on her church worship team, contributing to conservation efforts like TU River Restoration and DNR duck banding, and assisting on a dairy farm with milking cows and driving tractors. She enjoys playing instruments, riding horses, and studying dairy herd management, which she plans to pursue in college. If selected as Musky Queen, Ariana hopes to build meaningful connections and dedicate her time to serving the community.
2026/2027 Mini, Little & Junior Registration
Online Registration Opens May 1, 2026 at 10 a.m.
Be part of the excitement of the Musky Festival by joining the 2026/2027 Mini, Little, or Junior Musky Court. This is a fun and memorable opportunity for young girls to participate in a cherished Hayward tradition, build confidence, and celebrate community spirit. Spots are limited. The first 15 girls to submit a completed registration form in each age division will be selected for this year’s Musky Festival court. In each division, the Queen will be randomly drawn. All participants will receive a crown and a gift.
Mini Musky Court
Open to girls in Kindergarten, First, or Second Grade during the 2025/2026 school year.
Little Miss Musky Court
Open to girls in Third, Fourth, or Fifth Grade during the 2025/2026 school year.
Junior Musky Court
Open to girls in Sixth, Seventh, or Eighth Grade during the 2025/2026 school year.
We encourage families to register promptly, as each division is limited to 15 participants. Join us in celebrating the 2026/2027 Musky Festival and creating lasting memories!
Thank you to our 2026 Musky Queen Supporters!
Musky Festival Official Buttons
ALL proceeds go to the Musky Queen Scholarship Program where we give away annual scholarships ranging from $200 – $1300.
2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 & 2024 buttons are still available for $1 each.
100% of proceeds support the Musky Queen Scholarship Program!
Visit the Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce to purchase yours.
