STRIKING GOLD
Captains Nick Kelly & Sam Jaeger Rise to the Professional Indoor Level
Every team hopes to end it’s inaugural season with milestones, memories, and momentum. But for the Dubuque Miners, 2025 delivered something even more special, the opportunity to watch two of our captains take the next step in their football careers.
We are proud to celebrate C #69 Nick Kelly and C#10 Sam Jaeger, who have officially earned the chance to play a season of professional indoor football immediately following the Miners’ first-ever season. Their achievement is more than a personal triumph, it’s a reflection of their character, their leadership, and the foundation this organization is built on.
two leaders. two captains. one shared mission.
From the moment they arrived, both Nick and Sam helped define what it means to be a Miner.
#69 Nick Kelly - A Captain built on grit and consistency
A steady force in the trenches, Nick brought reliability, intelligence, and toughness to every snap. His work ethic became a quiet example for younger players, and his leadership extended far beyond the field. Nick embodies the “Earned Not Given” mindset. The kind of athlete who embraces the grind and elevates the standard for everyone around him.
#10 Sam Jaeger - A Captain of Heart, Versatility, and Determination
Sam has always been the spark, the kind of athlete who leads by example with relentless energy, adaptability, and pure love of the sport. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways and keep teammates motivated made him a cornerstone of our locker room and an easy choice for team captain.
Together, they set the tone for the Miners’ culture: competitive, disciplined, UNITED.
from the miners to the professional indoor game
What makes their call-ups to professional indoor football so meaningful is the timing. It happened immediately after the completion of the Miners’ inaugural season.
In Year One, our mission was simple:
- Build a competitive program
- Develop players and coaches
- Create real opportunities
- Elevate Dubuque Football
Nick and Sam proved that mission works.
Their journey shows that the Miners are more than a team, we are a platform for growth, development, and advancement.
To have two team captains earn pro indoor football opportunities after one season says everything about their talent, work ethic, and belief in themselves.
why this moment matters for the miners
Nick and Sam’s success reinforces the foundation of what we’re building:
- A program that creates pathways
- A team the leads players to bigger stages
- A culture that attracts hungry athletes
- A legacy built on development, not empty promises
For young athletes in Dubuque, for future Miners, and for anyone chasing their next level, this is proof that the door is open.
Their journey is a reminder that opportunity is real here.
from all of miners nation: congratulations captains
To Captain Nick Kelly (#69) and Captain Sam Jaeger (#10):
Your leadership shaped our inaugural season.
Your dedication elevated our standard.
Your next chapter inspires the entire Miners Family.
We are proud of you.
We are grateful for you.
And we cannot wait to watch you shine on the professional indoor stage!
Your story is just the beginning. And Dubuque is behind you all the way!
We’re also pleased to know these two great leaders will be returning to the Dubuque Miners for our second season!