When our forefathers came to this land many years ago, they established, what is now, a yearly tradition. One that is celebrated by all, regardless of religion, race, color or creed. Like butter to bread and apples to pie, there is nothing more American than Football on Thanksgiving. According to the archives, it was because of the thanksgiving game in 2012 that Kut found Jewball. (Also the last time that you’ll see those two things in the same sentence.)
Thanksgiving weekend is a series of 4 games in as many days. So when signups started, we expected a big flurry of activity, but like Rabin’s game, we knew the talent was there, but it was lacking. Through sheer grit and determination, we got 14 for Thursday, with a late signup by Mo as the opposing QB.
All was set…except the weather, 80% chance of rain, not looking good, but Commish had faith, he told us to hang on. Even on erev chag, Jordan said “wait until the am to make the call” and wait we did. The rain came, the clouds were there. Even at 7am, questions were still raised. But the rain seemed to be passing. Jordan made the call at 7:30. Game is ….ON! Like pigeons to a breadcrumb, the players came from everywhere, some sitting in traffic, others complaining about accidents. Regardless of origin, we arrived at the field to commence the 27th annual Jewball Turkey Bowl!
Teams were Old school vs New, Orange vs Brown, Native Americans vs Pilgrims. J, Bin, Kut, Big E, Steve O and Dave O Glick vs Mo, Salem, Legs, Wilmer, Sam, MK and Maor. Speed vs size. Old vs. Young.
As the game started, the heavens shined down upon us and the rain stopped. Rain is good for the ground and all, but certain things are given priority.
I could recap the game, but there was a lot of nothing. The wind played great defense and made balls miss on both sides of the field. Lots of running by Mo and lots of classic Rabin plays. Defense was solid on both sides and neither team was giving up much room. You know it’s a problem when Kut has more receptions than anyone else on the team. (FTR, he hasn’t dropped a pass in over 8 games.) Some key plays: Jordan missing an easy catch that would’ve given us a 1-0 lead. Kut teaching Legs and Sam what a crackback feels like. Steve-O coming up with 2 huge picks, one a 95 yard return to greatness. Mo trying to match that and going 80 yards before being brought down by Jordan and Kut. Jeremy catching 1 of 3 deep passes and running it in for a TD. Mark being his usual self with great hands and making people miss. Legs flying all over the field, breaking up every play. Big E finally understanding how accurate the chat was on Rabin’s huddle style. “you, run a slant” (and also cracking up about Glick’s.) BD, doing what BD does. Guy can still play, can’t wait to see you on the field more often. Dave-O calling the defense, kinda.
Final score was 1-1, a tie. But today wasn’t about scores or stats. It was about spending time with family and doing what we love. Jewball fam is stronger than blood. (Unless it’s Zada’s in J’s cap.) It was about getting out and playing ball, regardless of weather. While 2020 has been a hell of a year, Jewball has remained constant. It is the reprieve from the chaos. A safe haven from insanity. It is something that people can’t understand unless they’ve played. (and survived the chat)
So when we go around the thanksgiving feast tonight, I know that when asked what I’m thankful for, the answer is easily, JEWBALL!!