Rarely in the annals of sports have we seen such rugged competition, such exciting play calling, superb execution and manly heroics as was evidenced on the gridiron Friday afternoon.
The 2013 Turkey Bowl, held at Memorial Field, provided all of that and much more.
About 120 former State College High School football players teamed up for a round robin touch football derby that lasted for hours. Each team represented a different graduating class — except for the guys from the 90s — who were all lumped together on one team.
The event was a great bonding experience and there was more laughter than touchdowns. But there was a serious side too. The players helped raise money in honor of two former State College football teammates; Brandon Ream, who died last week; and Jeremy Wise who passed away in May.
The Turkey Bowl fundraising total exceeded $13,000 as of Friday evening — well past the $10,000 goal. That money will help fund scholarships for students at State College High School. Those scholarships are given out at the senior banquet.
In the end it came down to two teams, 2001 versus 2006. It was a brotherly grudge match with Chris Ganter quarterbacking for 2001 and his brother Ben at the helm of the 2006 squad. Chris Ganter, who helped organize the event, says, “We battled it out, had a great day for a good cause — everyone was happy to be out there.”
The championship game was a seesaw battle that ended with the score deadlocked — five touchdowns apiece. In overtime each team was given just two plays to score. The class of 2006 prevailed scoring the go ahead touchdown with no time left on the clock. Actually, there was no time on the clock all day. The teams played until somebody scored five touchdowns, regardless of how long it took.
There was plenty of good-natured banter under a chilly gray sky, with a few snow flakes occasionally hitting the Astroturf. A few aging bodies bounced off the turf as well.
Losing QB Chris Ganter said “Nobody got hurt so that’s a good thing.” Ben Ganter, the winning signal caller, said, “It’s pretty exciting,” as he basked in the warm glow of victory. “It’s great to see all these guys come out and play together.”
Members of team 2006 credit the win to having a good quarterback and a good line , along with “synergy” and “a little bit of luck here and there.” This was the fourth time the 2006 team has won the annual competition. There is already talk of a dynasty. You can expect that next year the 2006 team will be trying to win one for the thumb.
