EASLEY — The Easley-Pickens football rivalry has been a cherished tradition for the two cities dating back over 75 years.

But for the past seven years, the game has taken on a new meaning: besides playing for points, the teams now play for a much greater cause — benefiting the Pickens County Meals on Wheels.

Meta Bowers, executive director of Pickens County Meals on Wheels, said the annual “Food Fight Bowl” has raised almost $189,000 since its creation. That money stays in Pickens County to directly aid the area’s seniors.

The high schools of Easley, Pickens, Daniel and Liberty all take part in raising donations for the organization with the winning school being awarded “The Ultimate Food Fight” trophy at the conclusion of the drive.

This year’s deadline has been extended to Oct. 29.

“Extending the deadline and having all four high schools compete has added a new twist this event and we are excited about these changes,” said Bowers. “The students are always so creative and do a tremendous job. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community.”

The food fight campaign is PCMOW’s major fundraiser for the year with this year’s goal $20,000 — enough to pay for 4,000 meals.

As for the game itself, Easley walked away with top honors claiming the “Food Fight” trophy for the fifth time over Pickens in eight years.

Easley Coach John Windham accepted the “Food Fight” trophy crediting his team’s hard work for the 29-17 victory over the Blue Flame.

Off the field, it has been Pickens who has retained bragging rights, the Blue Flame has a 6-0-1 record for the fundraising part of the competition.

All four high schools are currently accepting donations.

“By supporting your team, you will provide a cure for hunger, loneliness and isolation for seniors all across Pickens County,” said Bowers.

Donations are accepted online at www.pcmow.org, or by mailing a check to Pickens County Meals on Wheels P.O. Box 184 Easley, SC 29641.

As for the game itself, Easley walked away with top honors claiming the “Food Fight” trophy for the fifth time over Pickens in eight years.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_761.jpgAs for the game itself, Easley walked away with top honors claiming the “Food Fight” trophy for the fifth time over Pickens in eight years. Kasie Strickland | The Pickens Sentinel

The eighth annual Food Fight campaign continues through Oct. 29 raising money for Pickens County Meals on Wheels.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_785.jpgThe eighth annual Food Fight campaign continues through Oct. 29 raising money for Pickens County Meals on Wheels. Kasie Strickland | The Pickens Sentinel

Fans spanning the generations turned out to cheer on their team. Easley native Tony James brought along his grandson, Tanner, who took the Green Wave’s performance very seriously.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_788.jpgFans spanning the generations turned out to cheer on their team. Easley native Tony James brought along his grandson, Tanner, who took the Green Wave’s performance very seriously. Kasie Strickland | The Pickens Sentinel

The atmosphere was festive for Friday’s game as students from both schools donned face paint, wore costumes and brought noise makers to cheer on their respective teams.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_807.jpgThe atmosphere was festive for Friday’s game as students from both schools donned face paint, wore costumes and brought noise makers to cheer on their respective teams. Kasie Strickland | The Pickens Sentinel

Off the field, it has been Pickens who has retained bragging rights with a 6-0-1 record for the fundraising part of the competition.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_811.jpgOff the field, it has been Pickens who has retained bragging rights with a 6-0-1 record for the fundraising part of the competition. Kasie Strickland | The Pickens Sentinel

Coach John Windham raised the “Food Fight” trophy in triumph, as he recognized his team’s hard fought victory and praised them for a well-played game.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_PCMOW.jpgCoach John Windham raised the “Food Fight” trophy in triumph, as he recognized his team’s hard fought victory and praised them for a well-played game. Courtesy photo

By Kasie Strickland

kstrickland@civitasmedia.com

Reach Kasie Strickland at 864-855-0355.