Presented by:

Saturday, October 12th, marks yet another edition of the infamous Erie Bell Rivalry between Port Jervis and Middletown. A rivalry that goes back 122 years, the Middie Bears from Middletown have won the Erie Bell Rivalry the last 5 years, including last year’s 24-0 victory over the Raiders from Port Jervis.  Thousands of fans will gather as they do every year to watch these teams go head to head in a tense and historic rivalry.

MVP

Rodney Bell
Middletown High School

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Matthew Conklin

Port Jervis Senior High School

Matthew is a two-year starter for varsity football and wrestling as well as a 3 year starter for varsity tennis. He has been a member of the interact club for the past 4 years. He is a member of the national honor society, varsity club, youth advisory board, vice president of the lions club, he has also had high honor roll since 2014 and commits countless hours to community service and volunteer work. Matt plans to attend college and major in history.
Josh Sam

Middletown High School

Josh is a 2-year letterman on the varsity football team and a 4-year letterman for the varsity wrestling team. He is a 2x All-Section wrestler, including a section finals appearance last year. Josh is also a member of the National Honor Society. He is currently undecided on a college, but plans to pursue a degree in either civil or chemical engineering.

GAME SUMMARY

One of the Great American Rivalry Series’ most historic competitions, this 122-year Erie Bell rivalry saw another epic showdown tonight. Thousands of fans gathered to watch the “Bell Week” competition. Middletown took an early lead, scoring on its first five possessions to take a 37-0 lead by the second quarter. A trick play—with offensive tackle Tyler LaCatena lining up as an eligible receiver—helped him score on a 9-yard touchdown toss from quarterback Dalton Howell. Wide receiver Rodney Bell—who was named the U.S. Marine Corps Game MVP—scored two touchdowns in the first half for the Middies, turning a short pass into a 76-yard scoring play. Despite determined Port Jervis effort, especially from quarterback Logan Hammock, the Middies kept their lead to earn a 57-14 win. This marks the sixth win in a row for the Middies in this rivalry.