Paterson, NJ – The 100th Thanksgiving Day football game between Eastside High School’s Ghosts and John F. Kennedy High School’s Knights turned into a remarkable celebration of tradition, community, and athletic competition at the historic Hinchliffe Stadium on Thursday. Despite persistent rain, the centennial matchup drew alumni, students, and residents together to commemorate a century-long rivalry.
This year’s event marked the second Thanksgiving game held at the newly restored Hinchliffe Stadium, which had been closed for nearly 30 years before its reopening. For decades, the stadium was the home of this annual classic, adding to the nostalgia and significance of the game.
“There’s a lot of pride on this field,” said Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh before the opening kick. “Today is bigger than just football. It’s about celebrating Paterson. No matter which team wins, the city wins.”
The game itself was a thriller. Kennedy High School struck first, with Yahzier Lennon recovering a fumble in the end zone for an early touchdown. Jayden Jones extended the Knights’ lead with two additional scores, including a highlight-worthy 32-yard interception return, giving Kennedy a commanding 20-0 lead by halftime.
But Eastside’s Exavier Cuevas wasn’t done. In a stunning second-half performance, Cuevas led the Ghosts to a comeback with four rushing touchdowns, including a 49-yard dash in the closing minutes to seal the victory. Cuevas tallied 152 rushing yards and all of Eastside’s points, propelling the Ghosts to a dramatic 28-20 win.
Fans packed the stands, creating an electric atmosphere and cheering passionately for their respective teams. The rivalry, which has been a hallmark of Thanksgiving in Paterson since 1925, continues to be a point of pride for the city.
The tradition began nearly a century ago when Eastside High School was founded to meet the needs of Paterson’s growing population. The original matchup was between Eastside and Central High School. When Central closed in 1965, Kennedy High School stepped in to carry on the tradition. Over the years, the game has evolved into a cornerstone of Paterson’s culture, blending competition with community spirit.
Dr. Laurie Newell, Superintendent of Paterson Public Schools, spoke about the importance of the occasion.
“This 100-year rivalry goes beyond the game itself—it represents Paterson’s resilience and history,” she said. “It’s a celebration of the athletes, the community, and the city’s enduring spirit. This tradition unites us in a way few others can.”
For many attendees, the game was more than just football—it was a trip down memory lane.
Eastside alumnus Vaughn L. McKoy, Class of 1986, recalled his own experiences with the Thanksgiving Classic.
“As a kid, I used to sneak into this stadium to watch the games, dreaming of playing here one day,” McKoy said. “Seeing it restored and filled with fans again is incredible. This isn’t just a field—it’s a field of dreams.”
Benjie Wimberly, Paterson’s Director of Recreation, echoed those sentiments.
“This game has been part of my family’s history for generations,” Wimberly said. “It’s about more than just competition. It’s about the memories, the connections, and the pride that comes with being part of something bigger than yourself.”
For Kennedy alumnus Moises Gordon, Class of 2001, the Thanksgiving Classic was the highlight of his high school years.
“This was our Super Bowl,” Gordon said. “Winning gave us bragging rights for an entire year. It’s incredible to see this tradition alive and thriving. These players are creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
As the sun set on the 100th Thanksgiving game, it was clear that this beloved tradition is more than a football rivalry—it’s a celebration of Paterson’s identity, history, and unity.
