The 100th Annual Pre-Thanksgiving Football Luncheon, hosted by the Lynn Rotary Club, was held on Tuesday November 22, 2022, at the Lynn Knights of Columbus. The luncheon brings together Captains from the five Lynn High School football teams for a friendly gathering before the Thanksgiving games. Also included were the Cheerleader Captains and the Band Director. The event Chairperson Sean Reid said: “Even though there is this tremendous long-standing rivalry we are still one Lynn.” This year marks the 108th Thanksgiving game between Classical and English! In 2021 Classical won the game on the last play of double overtime with a field goal!
This luncheon was started in 1920 when only Classical and English High Schools existed, now there are five High Schools: Classical, English, Technical Vocational, St. Mary’s and KIPP Academy. It is thought that some of the boys at the first luncheon had fathers who did not survive World War I, and it was a way for Rotary to remember them. There would have been 100 continuous luncheons in 2020 if it were not for COVID.
This year marked the 100th gathering. Mayor Jared Nicholson spoke about how the players will look back at the game with fond memories, win or lose. He thanked the Rotary Club for hosting the event for 100 years. Other dignitaries also spoke, giving encouragement to all. The Athletic Directors, the Captains of all teams spoke as well as the financial sponsors. The financial sponsors are the four major Credit Unions in Lynn: Brotherhood, Metro, Riverworks and St. Jean’s.
The picture, courtesy of the Lynn Item, is of the Captains, Co-Captains, Coaches and assistants.