After 110 Years, This N.J. Football Thanksgiving Rivalry to Be Removed From the Menu
For almost a century, one New Jersey Thanksgiving custom linked communities. The Roselle Park football game against its Christmas opponent was a family institution, a source of pride, and a development event for generations of young players. After 110 years, that tradition is changing, leaving many inhabitants fearing their town’s identity is vanishing.
It moved former players and coaches who spent their lives with the program. Football dominated Lou Grasso Jr.’s youth. Until Roselle Park head coach John Wagner appeared on the opposing sideline every Thanksgiving morning, he enjoyed the sport.
No personal interaction fueled early Wagner animosity, adds Grasso. Wagner hadn’t insulted him, and they hadn’t talked. Lou Grasso Sr., who appreciated Wagner’s leadership and work, didn’t influence his son. Like many young players, Grasso’s emotions were shaped by rivalry. Thanksgiving matchup meant more than points. Competition, community pride, and tradition in one morning.
Wagner coached Roselle Park from 1981 to 2005, including numerous Thanksgiving games. He was known in the rivalry for his discipline, consistency, and devotion for his team’s tradition. His resentment turned into respect for Wagner as Grasso grew up and entered football. That change indicates how this rivalry has affected Roselle Park and adjacent households. It shaped character and memories.
With the ritual off the agenda, many questions remain. Longer seasons, playoffs, and safety have changed high school sports nationwide. Thanksgiving games used to end the season, but many teams play playoffs in November. Some programs make Christmas games scheduling issues rather than celebrations.
Still, settling a 100-year enmity is hard. Friday night game attendance may be unusual. Alumni were urged to return annually. It brought neighbors, students, and families together before Christmas. In Roselle Park, the game was communal.
Former players recall getting up early on Thanksgiving, hearing the crowd fill the stands, and heading onto the field with a tradition on the line as New Jersey schools end holiday games. Though the competition is ended, its stories continue.
A sad conclusion to this tradition for Lou Grasso Jr. This finishes New Jersey football history but shows how high school sports can influence a city. The pride, rivalries, and lessons learned on that field will inspire future generations after the holiday game.
