Derby - Shelton Game Draws National Attention

Shelton scored early and often on its way to a resounding 56-12 win over Derby in the 98th annual meeting between the two schools on a beautiful Thanksgiving morning at Edward Finn Field in Shelton. Doug Cummings of Shelton captured both the Silver Turkey award presented by the Valley Times and the Most Valuable Player Award presented as part of the Great American Rivalry program described below.

The much-anticipated Great American Rivalry Series, presented by the United States Marine Corps, returns for a fifth season.  The Series, created to showcase top high school football rivalries across the nation, will feature the historically heated contest between Shelton High School and Derby High School on Thanksgiving Day, November 27.

Once again, fans will file into the Shelton High School Turf Stadium to watch the Gaels and Red Raiders vie for victory in the 98^th Thanksgiving game.  This tradition-rich, annual rumble dates back to 1904, with Shelton leading the series 45-43-8.

The Derby-Shelton game is one of only 25 must-see games selected for the Marine Corps sponsored Rivalry Series this fall.  As part of the Series, the winning team earns bragging rights along with the coveted title of “2008 Great American Rivalry Champion” and is presented with the Champion’s Trophy by a member of the United States Marine Corps.  A “Most Valuable Player” is also recognized, and the Series awards the top student athlete from each school a college scholarship. 

During the game, students from both schools are encouraged to become part of the excitement and add fuel to the fire by competing in the United States Marine Corps Chin-up Challenge.  The school completing the most chin-ups will be announced the winner that night and awarded a trophy.

“We are excited to partner once again with the Great American Rivalry Series,” said Leroy Pennington, Marketing Specialist AC/S Recruiting United States Marine Corps Eastern Recruiting Region, Parris Island, SC. “The elite status of this Series fits perfectly with the Elite Warrior brand of the Marine Corps and we are proud to stand alongside these outstanding young athletes.”

The Great American Rivalry Series emerged from a desire to celebrate the cultural phenomenon of Friday night high school football.  The Series shines the spotlight on classic gridiron clashes where expectations are sky high and die-hard fans abound. 

For many seniors, this may be the last big game of their high school career and the climax of their “Glory Days.”  The Rivalry Series captures that moment and creates a memorable experience for athletes, students and fans that will be talked about long after the end of the season. 

Story posted on November 19, 2008