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Help raise money for a good cause and challenge yourself on the gridiron!

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About

Game Info: The next game will be at 10:00am on December 31st, 2024 at South Ardmore Park.

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Annual traditions aren’t something typically created by elementary school students. Yet that’s exactly the case when it comes to The New Year’s Game.

On New Year’s Eve day in 1997, a few precocious fourth graders met up at South Ardmore Park and played a game of tackle football together. It certainly wasn’t their initial intention, but that day, they started a tradition that would last into adulthood, forever establishing a shared bond of competition, friendship, and of course, football.

As the boys grew up, so did the game. In their teenage years, kids from other local schools joined. In their twenties, friends from college were invited to play, creating a network of players that spans across the country. Finally, now in their thirties (and too old to continue playing tackle) the game has expanded once more, and this time everyone’s invited, no matter your age, gender, or skill level!

After 20-plus years of playing through rain, sleet, and snow (not to mention a few broken bones), the now-grown men want to share this hallowed tradition with the community that raised them. Which is why they have established The New Year’s Game Scholarship Fund for improving the academic and economic outcomes of students in the Philadelphia area public schools.

Play With Family & Friends

The New Year's Game is open to everyone! All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to play! No need to sign up, just show up.

20+ Years Running

Over 100 participants

Compete

Whether you are a starting quarterback or a backup offensive lineman, you'll get the chance to play any position you want.

In any weather

Rain, sun, sleet or snow

Contribute

We play for fun and we play for purpose. Contribute today to help the cause!

Thousands of dollars donated to date

Every dollar helps

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry!

When the game ends, the fun is just beginning! Join us after the final whistle for a gathering of delicious food and drink shared amongst family and friends.

Stay for the food

Find out who wins the MVP award

Our Board

The South Ardmore Football Foundation was founded to continue the legacy of The New Year's Game and raise money for a great cause.

Tyler Schwartz

Founder

Tyler has never missed a New Year's Game and hosts the after-game event every year at his house across from South Ardmore Park. He currently resides in Durham, North Carolina with his wife, Madison, and son, River.

Ryan Melvin

Founder

Ryan is an original member of the game and one of the top performers. The game concludes each year when he is hurt enough that he can no longer play. He currently lives in California with his wife, Ashley, and daughter, Marley.

James Sabzali

Founder

Like Tyler and Ryan, James has been playing in the New Year's Game since he was 9 years old. He is the game's resident trash talker, so best not to give him any lip. James lives nearby in Philadelphia with his wife, Christine, and son Jaden.