(La Porte, IN) - There’s a long tradition of flag football on Thanksgiving in La Porte

What’s basically a pick-up game involving anyone who wants to show up and play is held annually in a field behind the old Ruth Sabin Home, a mansion in the 1600 block of Michigan Ave.

According to historians, the late Don Tonsoni, who was a teacher at La Porte High School, began the tradition and continued on with it until his death in 2023. 

He lived next to the residence and came up with the idea the day before Thanksgiving about a half century ago.

“They play rain or shine every year.  They’ve never missed a year,” said La Porte resident Mike Kellems, who as out there Thursday checking out the action.

Kellems said the players in what’s dubbed the “Turkey Bowl” range from college students home for the holiday to senior citizens.