Neumann-Goretti-South Philadelphia Annual Thanksgiving Day Game Cancelled
Tagged under: District 12, News, pfn
Willie McGonigle | October 8, 2025
What once was an annual tradition of Philadelphia area teams playing a traditional rival on Thanksgiving has been dying over the years, and on Wednesday, another one was announced to be taking at least this year off. On their school’s athletics Facebook page today, Neumann-Goretti announced that they and South Philadelphia High School made the decision to cancel their annual Thanksgiving Day game for 2025. The two teams first started playing each other back in 1934, before the series was halted in 2016 and 2017, and resumed in 2021.
The Statement reads, “Due to circumstances surrounding our Southern Football program this season, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Annual Thanksgiving Day Game.
We understand how much this cherished tradition means to our alumni, students, and community. Many of you dedicate your time and energy each year to supporting the event, and we deeply appreciate all that you do.
Our plan is to reinstate the game in 2026, when our team will be more prepared and experienced to represent Southern with pride and strength.
We want to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Marc Caserio and the Neumann-Goretti Football staff for their full understanding and support. We wish them the best of luck in the Catholic League and State playoffs.
This tradition is one of great pride and unity for the South Philadelphia community, and we look forward to bringing it back next year.
To all of our alumni — your continued dedication to both Southern and Neumann-Goretti is the backbone of South Philadelphia. Thank you for your unwavering support!”
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