BRISTOL, Conn. (WFSB) – While football on Thanksgiving is a tradition for many communities around the state, one long-running rivalry is rescheduling its big game.
It’s a long-standing tradition that Bristol Eastern takes on Bristol Central at Muzzy Field on Thanksgiving day.
But with rain in the forecast Thursday, the game is being moved to Wednesday at 6 o’clock.
The city’s parks and recreation department made the decision over the weekend.
For some in town, the move makes sense. For others, it is a bit of a disappointment.
“All of our friends from high school, everybody would be here, and we’d all get together,” said Christa Finn. “It’s been a tradition on Thanksgiving Day forever! Before everybody eats, they come here. They’re here at like six in the morning.”
Christa Finn lives across the street from Muzzy Field. Her kids graduated from Bristol Central.
She joins the Thanksgiving festivities every year.
“I’ve seen them have it in the pouring rain. People would end up parking in our parking lot because you know everybody wants to get close, and they’ve done it in the pouring rain. So, I’m kind of surprised,” she said.
The CIAC says they haven’t heard of any other Thanksgiving day games being rescheduled, but say they wouldn’t be surprised if it does happen.
“Well, it’s a tradition. There’s going to be a lot of people that are going to feel a little uncomfortable,” said Ron LaFountain, former BEHS football player.
Bristol Mayor Jeffrey Caggiano says this isn’t the first time the game has been moved.
“I know of at least two instances where this has happened, so it’s not unprecedented,” he said. “I think it’s best for the kids right? I think the biggest thing they’re looking at is safety.”
Some think the schedule change could be good, especially for those cooking on Thanksgiving morning.
“Maybe give them a little bit more breathing room on Thanksgiving where they can go Wednesday night and then sleep a little later in the morning,” said Margie, a Bristol parent.
There are more than two dozen football games still scheduled for Thursday.
The CIAC release their football playoff seedings on Friday. If any other games get moved, they’ll need to be completed before then.
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