About the
program
The Dubuque Miners football program was founded by players, for players, with a mission to provide a competitive, supportive, and player-focused environment for athletes who are passionate about the game. As proud members of the Midwest United Football League (MWUF), we represent the city of Dubuque with grit, determination, and a deep love for football.
From leadership to coaching, the Miners were built from the ground up by individuals who have played the game at this level and beyond. With years of combined experience and firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed on and off the field, our program is dedicated to helping athletes develop their skills, grow as teammates and community leaders, and compete at a high level.
At the heart of the Dubuque Miners is a commitment to excellence, community, and the power of football to bring people together.
OUR STORY
The dubuque miners were born from a shared vision between co-founders ken johnson and tony hammel, friends since highschool and former teammates on a dubuque team that played from 2009-2012. after those years on the field together, the passion for the game never faded, and neither did the dream of brining quality amateur football back to the city they love, but this time with a higher standard, stronger foundation, and a professional identity the community could be proud of.
The miners were built to do more than compete. Our mission is to create a gold-standard football organization rooted in discipline, opportunity, and integrity. a team that gives athletes a platform to grow, fans an experience to rally behind, and the community a source of pride.
From day one, we’ve made community involvement part of our dna. wheter supporting local events, partnering with area businesses, uplifting youth programs, or showing up for causes that matter, the miners exist to strengthen dubuque on and off the field.
this isn’t just football. it’s a legacy. rebuilt, reimagined, and revived for dubuque.
Why the name, “miners”?
The name miners wasn’t picked at random, it was chosen to honor the very foundation of dubuque’s past. long before the stadium lights, paved roads, or modern neighborhoods, this region was a rugged mining frontier. lead and zinc deposits drew some of the earliest settlers to the bluffs along the mississippi, including julien dubuque himself, whose partnership with the meskwaki people turned these hillsides into one of the first major mining operations in the entire midwest.
For decades, the dubuque area was shaped by miners who worked with courage, and determination. Carving tunnels through rock, hauling ore from the earth, and building the early backbone of the city we know today. those miners were resilient. tough. unafraid of hard work. they stood shoulder to shoulder and relied on one another to get the job done.
That spirit is what inspired our identity.
we chose the name dubuque miners to carry forward that same mentality. blue collar pride, relentless effort, and a team built on unity.
When our players take the field, they represent the same toughness and perserverance that built this city from the ground up.
our name is more than branding, it’s a tribute to the people who forged dubuque’s history, and a promise to uphold that legacy every time we suit up.
Why the colors?
our colors weren’t chosen just because they look sharp. they were chosen because they mean something to dubuque.
red and white are a direct tribute to two of the city’s most iconic and respected programs: the historic dubuque fighting saints hockey team and the long standing dubuque rugby club. these teams have carried our city’s pride for decades, and by adopting their colors, we honor the legacy they built and show unity with the athletes, fans, and traditions that helped shape sports in this area. red and white connect us to dubuque’s competitive spirit and championship roots. the red and white also symbolize the brick and mortar that make up dubuques historic and beautiful down town area.
gold represents something truly special. the gleaming golden dome of dubuque’s historic courthouse, a landmark visible from nearly every corner of the city. it’s a symbol of heritage, strength, and community identity. incorporating gold into our brand ties the miners to the heart of dubuque itself.
together, red, white, and gold form more than a color scheme. they unify our past, present, and future. honoring where dubuque has been, celebrating who we are today, and lighting a path for the legacy we’re building
Common Questions
If you have any further questions or concerns please follow the link below:
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All Home Games will be played at Chalmers Field on the Campus of University of Dubuque!
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The Miners are an 18+ Adult Developmental Football Team.
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Helmets and Shoulder pads are provided by the organization for the players. However, players are more than welcome to purchase their own equipment that they could then keep for themselves.
All equipment owned by the Miners Organization must be turned in by end of season.
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Travel is covered by the Miners Organization. Players will be transported to and from Away Games by bus.
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There will be snack items provided by the Miners Organization on Away Games for all players. It’s still a smart idea for each player to bring food/snack items as well.
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The first program is the team itself. Retaining local talent and providing a positive outlet to create productive members of our community. We aim to have youth sports projects and mentorships as well. Your support will help with that!
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As part of the Midwest United Football League (MWUF), the Dubuque Miners play by the NFL rule book however do not incorporate the NFL kickoff rule.
Mission statement
The Dubuque Miners Football Program is committed to delivering high-quality sports entertainment that brings pride, excitement, and unity to our great community.
The Miners Football Program provides athletes with the opportunity to participate and compete at a high level, fostering personal growth, discipline, teamwork, and the tools to create positive and impactful members of our community.
Dedicated to the advancement of football at all levels, the Miners Football Program aims to collaborate with youth programs, High School programs, and Collegiate programs to support the development of future talent.
Our vision is to build a lasting football legacy in Dubuque through our passion and community engagement. We strive to build a culture of integrity and opportunity- One that inspires, empowers, and elevates everyone involved.
The Gold Standard.