A century-plus tradition concluded on Thursday as Roselle and Roselle Park high schools faced off in their 106th, and final, Thanksgiving Day football game. The annual contest, a cornerstone of the Union County holiday for generations, ended with a Roselle Park victory, but the win is bittersweet as the future holds no more Turkey Day clashes between these storied rivals.
The End of an Era for New Jersey Thanksgiving Football
For decades, the Roselle-Roselle Park game wasn’t just a football game; it was a community event, a reunion, and a symbol of Thanksgiving itself. Jim Rhyner, a former captain for Roselle Park, reflected on the game’s significance. “It’s sad because it’s such a tradition,” he said. “It’s everything you looked forward to in high school. This game, it’s a rivalry you always wanted to win.” The sentiment was echoed by Al Mirabella, Rhyner’s former teammate, who added, “Three years we played here. This game was always the highlight. I’m sad the tradition is ending but I love that they’re keeping the rivalry.”
The game’s pull extended far beyond current students and recent graduates. Bernard Starling, a Roselle wide receiver from the 1970s, now residing in Pennsylvania, made the annual pilgrimage home for the Thanksgiving game. His dedication speaks to the enduring power of this tradition. But what prompted the end of this long-standing Thanksgiving fixture?
Shifting Schedules and a Changing Landscape
The decision to discontinue the Thanksgiving Day game stems from changes to the New Jersey high school sports calendar. Earlier season starts are forcing districts to reassess late-season scheduling. According to officials, the altered timeline makes holding games so close to the end of the season increasingly challenging. While the rivalry will continue, the unique atmosphere of Thanksgiving Day will be lost. John Wagner, former coach for Roselle Park, noted the broader impact: “New Jersey in general is down to 12 Thanksgiving games. This is the last game in Union County, so it means a lot, the alumni comes together.”
The final game wasn’t just about the players on the field. The halftime show featured performances from both school bands, alongside a gathering of alumni, creating a poignant farewell to a beloved tradition. Janet Hedrick, a Roselle “twirler” from the 1960s, traveled from Pennsylvania for the occasion. “We came from Pennsylvania, it was two hours away. We wanted to be here for the final Thanksgiving game,” she said, adding, “It brings back a lot of good memories.”
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The game itself provided a dramatic conclusion, with Roselle Park securing the victory in the final chapter of this Thanksgiving rivalry. But the real story isn’t about the score; it’s about the memories, the connections, and the sense of community that this game fostered for over a century. What role do high school sports play in building community identity in your town?
As traditions evolve, it’s important to reflect on their significance and the impact they have on those who participate and witness them. The end of the Roselle-Roselle Park Thanksgiving game marks the close of an era, but the spirit of rivalry and community will undoubtedly endure.
The History of Thanksgiving Football in New Jersey
The tradition of high school football on Thanksgiving Day in New Jersey dates back to the late 19th century. Initially, these games were often informal gatherings between local schools, quickly becoming a popular way to celebrate the holiday and foster community spirit. Over time, the games evolved into fiercely contested rivalries, with many schools establishing annual Thanksgiving matchups that spanned decades. The games provided a focal point for towns and cities, drawing large crowds and creating lasting memories for players, alumni, and fans alike.
The decline in the number of Thanksgiving Day games in recent years reflects broader changes in high school sports scheduling and a growing emphasis on player safety and workload management. However, the remaining games continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many New Jersey residents, serving as a reminder of a cherished tradition. You can learn more about the history of high school football in New Jersey at the NJ.com High School Sports website.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Roselle-Roselle Park Thanksgiving Game
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Why did the Roselle and Roselle Park Thanksgiving football game end?
The game ended due to changes in the New Jersey high school sports calendar, with earlier season starts making it difficult to schedule games so late in the year.
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Will Roselle and Roselle Park continue to play football against each other?
Yes, the schools will continue to play each other, but the game will no longer be held on Thanksgiving Day.
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How long had the Roselle-Roselle Park Thanksgiving football game been played?
The game had been played for 106 consecutive years, dating back to 1918.
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What is the significance of Thanksgiving football in New Jersey?
Thanksgiving football is a long-standing tradition in New Jersey, representing a community event and a symbol of the holiday season.
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How many Thanksgiving football games are still played in New Jersey?
As of 2025, there are approximately 12 Thanksgiving Day football games remaining in New Jersey.
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What impact did the game have on the local community?
The game brought together alumni, students, and residents, fostering a strong sense of community and school spirit.
Share this story with your friends and family and let us know your favorite Thanksgiving football memories in the comments below!
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