HINCKLEY, Ohio (WJW) — The Meadows Turkey Bowl, a Thanksgiving tradition unlike any other, is set to return to the Hinckley community for its 35th year.
What started as a small family pick-up game has grown into a 42-player tournament, featuring some of the top local athletes.
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Mike Meadows, the event’s organizer, is determined to make this year’s game the best yet.
“Our theme this year is unapologetically, relentless,” Meadows said.
While the game brings the Meadows family joy year after year, its impact on local charities is what they cherish most.
Each participant must raise at least $3,000 to take the field. Over the past 17 years, the Turkey Bowl has raised nearly $5 million for charitable causes.
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“Last year we raised over $600,000, with each player averaging around $9,000,” Pete Meadows shared.
The event took on even greater meaning in 2020 after Pete Meadows was diagnosed with brain cancer.
“It’s a reminder of how precious life is. There are people in my situation who have had it much worse,” Pete said.
For Mike Meadows, the tournament has become deeply personal.
“When you’re fighting for your son and others with the disease, you become relentless,” he said. “I don’t care because I’m fighting for my son and others.”
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Over the years, the Meadows Turkey Bowl has become much more than just a football game. It has raised millions for charity, brought the community closer and helped the Meadows family navigate difficult Thanksgivings.
From year one to year 35, the constant theme has been the loyal support of the community.
“It’s this blend of backyard football, Thanksgiving, helping the needy, and now cancer,” Mike said. “Everyone can relate.”
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