Big 33 Football Classic

The Big 33 Football Classic originated in 1957 and is still considered one of the finest scholastic All-Star football games in the United States. Presently, the Big 33 Classic features the top players from Pennsylvania going head-to-head with Maryland’s finest 33 players. The Big 33 Classic has long been known as “The Super Bowl of High School Football.” Many of the players who have participated in this game are recruited by Division 1 colleges and universities and many have advanced to the next level where they have attained a high degree of success. Some of the more notable former NFL players include Kyle Brady, John Cappelletti, Kerry Collins, Sean Gilbert, Marvin Harrison, Jim Kelly, Dan Marino, Joe Montana, Joe Namath, Ricky Watters, Ed McCaffrey, Larry Johnson and Steve Slaton to name a few. There are countless more who have moved to the next level. There has never been a Super Bowl without a Big 33 Alumnus. The BIG 33 is proud to claim that at least one former BIG 33 player has appeared in every Super Bowl game ever played. That, in itself, indicates the quality of the players who participate in the annual event. The Big 33 promotes quality coaching and works closely with the Pennsylvania (PSFCA) and Ohio Scholastic Football Coaches Associations (OSFCA). Coaches make a difference both on and off the field, having a major influence on our youth. 1961 Big 33 alumni and 2007 Honorary Chairman, Marty Schottenheimer, is an excellent example. He credits his high school football coach for much of the success he attained at the University of Pittsburgh and as the head coach for the Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Redskins, and San Diego Chargers. “Much more than just a football game,” The Big 33 Football Classic promotes excellence in students and the community by involving players, cheerleaders, All-Star band members, buddies, host families and scholarship winners in a host of activities during Game Week.