LINCOLN, Neb. (April 23, 2015) — At first, David Ehrke didn’t even know he was entered in a competition to sing the national anthem at the State Games of America (SGA). Now he’s excited for the opportunity to take his talent to Memorial Stadium at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he’ll perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” for thousands during the opening ceremonies of SGA 2015 on July 31.

Ehrke, 15, of Alma, Nebraska, was chosen by voters at the State Games of America Facebook page. His video of a past national anthem performance at a Lincoln Saltdogs game earned 1,457 “likes,” edging Marlana Vanhoose of Denver, Kentucky. Ehrke’s video was submitted by his brother Jared without his knowledge. A panel of judges selected Ehrke to be one of five finalists from a pool of 52 entrants from 21 states.

“It was amazing when I found out I’d won,” said Ehrke. “I’ve always dreamed of performing at Memorial Stadium. It will be an honor.” He says a grassroots social media campaign led by his brother and sister helped put him over the top, and he’s thankful for all the people who supported him in the contest.

Ehrke is the youngest of five children in a family known for performing at local churches and special events in the Alma area. He began singing solos at age seven and enjoys learning and performing a wide variety of music.

The 2015 State Games of America is scheduled for July 28–August 2 in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska. With nearly 20,000 competitors, the event will be the largest amateur sports festival in the U.S. SGA 2015 is open to all Nebraskans and qualifying athletes from throughout the nation. In addition to Ehrke’s performance, the opening ceremonies will feature the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and the Metal Mulisha motocross daredevils.

Details regarding events, eligibility, hotel accommodations and the host city of Lincoln are available at SGA2015.com. Follow State Games of America on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.