Rivalry ‘Fish Bowl’ game is today, but it won’t be played in Gig Harbor

GIG HARBOR, Wash. — The Peninsula School District is putting a new twist this year on a long-standing tradition: it’s moved the rivalry ‘Fish Bowl’ football game to a venue in Tacoma.

For the last 45 years, Gig Harbor High School and Peninsula High School have battled each other at Roy Anderson Field for town bragging rights.

Today’s game, however, will be played at Mt. Tahoma Stadium, about a 20-minute drive away.

“We are thrilled to continue this beloved tradition in a new venue that will better accommodate our passionate fans,” said Superintendent Krestin Bahr in a news release.

“Our goal is to ensure a safe and memorable experience for all.”

The decision comes one year after the rivalry game turned violent.

After the 2023 Fish Bowl, KIRO 7 reported that a late hit landed Gig Harbor’s quarterback in the hospital.

In a news release, Peninsula School District attributed the move to the teams’ growing fanbase.

“The popularity of the Fish Bowl has outgrown Roy Anderson Field, and we want to honor this important tradition in a facility that allows our whole community to participate,” Bahr said.

Mount Tahoma Stadium can seat 5,000 compared to the 2,000 seats available at Roy Anderson Field.

The district says having a larger venue prevents them from having to limit ticket sales.

Mount Tahoma’s stadium is also covered on both sides, something that Roy Anderson lacks.

Game details:

Gates: Open at 12:30 p.m.

Kick-off: 2 p.m.

Parking: PHS fans on S. Verde Street, GHHS fans on 74th St, with overflow parking available.

Tickets: Onsite tickets will be available today. Adult tickets are $8. Seniors, military, and students without ASB card tickets are $5. Preschool students and students with ASB cards are free.

Rules:

· No tailgating is allowed.

· Bags larger than 5.5″ x 4″ will not be permitted.

· Middle school students must be accompanied by an adult.

· Security will be present, and attendees are encouraged to leave valuables at home.

· No open containers.

· No outside food or drink.

· No pets except for service animals.

· There will be no tolerance for drugs, alcohol, or weapons.

· No artificial noisemakers.

· No full face paint, full face masks, hand-held signs, whiteboards, sticks, balls, frisbees, anything that discharges powder or smoke, or newspapers.

· Shirts and shoes required.

Can I watch from home?

The game will be broadcast live on KGHP and streamed online through NFHS (a subscription fee applies).

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