One family's Turkey Bowl tradition hits 50th year: "I wouldn't miss it for anything:"



RICHFIELD -- Super Bowl 50 is just two months away. But on Thursday, November 26th, another pigskin tradition was celebrating its 50th year.

Turkey Bowl tradition



It was Red versus Blue at Town Hall Park in Richfield on Thanksgiving morning.  More than 25 men and women were geared up to hit the gridiron in a tradition that has lasted five decades.

The man behind the tradition -- Dennis Thurin.

"It's just something that just has kept us all together and he started it," said Matt Thurin, Dennis' son.

Turkey Bowl tradition



"Dennis was a guy who was always about family, family first -- and community and competition," said Al Schmitz, a family friend.

While bragging rights are always on the line, for this competition the score is rarely kept.

Dennis Thurin (center)



"There's never really a tally of who won or what team won how many years," said Joe Thurin, Dennis' son. "When you make it to year 50, it's something special I guess. And for my Dad, I think he'll be very proud that were continuing it."

Thurin passed away in 2004 from a sudden heart attack. His wife hasn't missed a Turkey Bowl since -- and neither have most of the players.

"This is my 29th straight year. I wouldn't miss it for anything," said Schmitz.

Turkey Bowl tradition



A commemorative plaque was dedicated to the Thurin family in honor of their late father -- and the long-standing Turkey Bowl tradition. The plaque was donated by the Schmitz family -- and will be a fixture at Town Hall Park.