For over 90 years, the Tulare Union High School and Tulare Western High School football teams have battled it out on the field in a game that brings the community together and creates a lasting rivalry unlike any other. This game is known as the Tulare Union Bell Game, and it is an event that draws in thousands of fans and spectators every year.
The History of the Bell Game
The first Tulare Union Bell Game was played in 1922, and it has been an annual tradition ever since. The game gets its name from the Bell Trophy, a large brass bell that is awarded to the winning team each year. The Bell Trophy was donated by a group of local businessmen in 1930 as a way to add even more excitement to the annual game.
Throughout the years, the Bell Game has become one of the most highly anticipated high school football events in the state of California. The game not only showcases the talents of the young athletes but also fosters a sense of school pride and community spirit.
The Tradition Lives On
The atmosphere of the Bell Game is unlike any other high school football game. The stadium lights up with the school colors of Tulare Union (red and gold) and Tulare Western (blue and white). The stands are filled with students, alumni, and community members who have come to cheer on their team and celebrate the tradition of the Bell Game.
The game itself is full of energy and excitement. The two teams leave everything on the field in hopes of winning the Bell Trophy and earning bragging rights for the year. The rivalry between the two schools is seen not only on the field but also in the community, as fans and supporters of both teams engage in friendly banter and trash talk before and after the game.
Pre-Game Festivities
The Bell Game is more than just a football game; it's an event. The festivities begin long before kickoff with tailgates, pep rallies, and other activities. Each school hosts its own events to get students and fans excited for the game.
As the game approaches, the excitement builds. The energy in the stadium is palpable as fans eagerly await the rivalry game to begin.
The Game Itself
When the two teams take the field, the Bell Game tradition is on full display. The marching bands play their fight songs, the cheerleaders lead the crowd in cheers, and the players leave it all on the field.
While the game is filled with big plays, hard hits, and exciting moments, it is also a game that is steeped in tradition. The Bell Trophy serves as a symbol of the rivalry between the two schools, and winning it is a source of pride for the winning team, its fans, and its alumni.
Post-Game Celebration
Once the game is over, the celebration begins. The winning team takes possession of the Bell Trophy and parades it around the field, showcasing their victory to the crowd. Fans rush onto the field, congratulating the players and celebrating the tradition of the Bell Game.
For the losing team, the Bell Game may be a disappointment, but the players and fans take heart in the fact that they gave it their all and contributed to the tradition of the Bell Game. They know that there's always next year's game to look forward to, and a chance to win back the Bell Trophy.
FAQ
| Q: Who won the first Tulare Union Bell Game? | A: Tulare Union won the first Bell Game, which was played in 1922. |
| Q: How many times has Tulare Union won the Bell Game? | A: As of 2021, Tulare Union has won the Bell Game 47 times. |
| Q: What happens to the Bell Trophy during the off-season? | A: The Bell Trophy is kept at the school of the previous year's winning team until the next Bell Game. |
| Q: How many people attend the Bell Game each year? | A: The exact number varies, but attendance at the Bell Game can reach over 10,000 people. |
| Q: Can people who aren't students or alumni attend the Bell Game? | A: Yes, the Bell Game is open to the public and is a popular event for people of all ages in the community. |
Conclusion
The Tulare Union Bell Game is more than just a football game. It's a tradition that brings together the community and creates a lasting rivalry between two schools. The Bell Game showcases the talents of young athletes, fosters school pride and spirit, and provides an exciting event for students, alumni, and community members to enjoy together.
If you're ever in the area during Bell Game season, be sure to experience the tradition for yourself!