In a rivalry that spans back to 1897, the stage is set once again for the historic clash between the Port Jervis Raiders and the Middletown Bears. This storied duel, famously known as the “Bell Game,” is a cherished spectacle that has kept fans on the edge of their seats for 144 meetings. On September 14, 2023, Glennette Field will bear witness to another chapter in this intense rivalry.

With the all-time series favoring Middletown at 78-59-7, the Port Jervis Raiders are hungrier than ever to narrow the gap. Last season’s showdown saw Port Jervis football stage a breathtaking comeback, snatching a 33-19 victory from the jaws of defeat and reclaiming the iconic Erie Bell trophy. Trailing 19-6 late in the third quarter, the Raiders rallied with an astonishing 27-point surge, igniting a fervor that only this rivalry can inspire.

Founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, Rick Ford, eloquently captures the essence of this classic rivalry, stating, “The Port Jervis vs. Middletown matchup is a true testament to the enduring spirit of high school football and the profound impact it has on communities. It embodies the heart and soul of our Great American Rivalry Series.”

With a crowd of 2,000 fans expected to fill the stands, Glennette Field will undoubtedly transform into a cauldron of emotion and anticipation. As the Raiders and Bears take to the field, the echoes of history reverberate, reminding us of the legacy that has been built over more than a century.

Mark your calendars for this monumental clash, as Port Jervis and Middletown continue to etch their names into the annals of high school football lore. The “Bell Game” is not just a contest—it’s a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and the unyielding spirit of competition.

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MVP

Julani Graham
Middletown

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Jaren Rodriguez

Port Jervis

Jaren has played football at Port Jervis for the last 6 years as well as basketball. He plans to major in aviation next year at a college to be named at a later date.
Cameron Whiley

Middletown

He is a part of the National Honors Society. Cameron is a part of both the wrestling and football teams in Middletown. Current reigning Middletown football jeopardy champion.

GAME SUMMARY

The Middletown Middies traveled to Port Jervis tonight in a Thursday night edition of the annual Erie Bell Game. An early TD for Middletown put them on the board first, 7-0 at the start of the game. The Middies continued to rack up the points with a strong run doubling 14-0. The Raiders came back with a tough fake play advancing to mid-field. Middletown defense wasn’t allowing much, and the offense showed up too with a shifty run by Middie #10 Culver ending at first and goal. Culver took a dive into the endzone bringing it to halftime 21-0. The defense was strong starting the first half with blocked passes from both sides. With 6 minutes left in the 3rd, QB Dylan Fox ran it in to put the first points up for Port Jervis and after a 2-pt conversion, they tightened it up, 21-8. Middies matched with a TD +2 to bring the final to 29-8 Middletown.