Published November 6, 2025
BY JADE GRANBERY
Pom-poms, pep bands and a bronzed shoe–this year, Carmel High takes to the streets in replacement of the homecoming parade with a parade on Friday, celebrating the long-standing tradition of the Shoe Game, followed the next day by the 78th annual game, hopeful to maintain Carmel’s streak against Pacific Grove High School.
The bronzed Shoe, first awarded in 1948, remains the ultimate prize in the annual rivalry game between Carmel and P.G. Photo by PETE NOTO
The Shoe Game, or “The Shoe,” is the yearly football showdown between Carmel High and Pacific Grove High. Despite competing in different divisions this season, the rivalry has endured generations.
The game’s origin dates back to 1948 when a group of students bronzed a teacher’s shoe for a trophy, sparking a 78-year tradition that has grown far beyond the football field. Each fall, the Shoe passes between schools, carrying decades of history and bragging rights.
“I’ve seen the Shoe from every angle–as a player, assistant and head coach,” says athletic director and football head coach Golden Anderson. “I’ve seen the goods and the bads–the heartbreak, the joy of winning, the sadness of losing. It’s something the whole community feels.”
Anderson, who graduated from CHS in 1997, began coaching at Carmel in 2003 and has witnessed the rivalry evolve.
“There was a time when both teams weren’t very good,” he recalls. “That game was like the Super Bowl, the big finish to the season. I’ve also seen years with both teams undefeated, like 2013. It’s changed since then, but it always meant something.”
This year, school spirit spreads beyond the field. With the homecoming parade canceled, Carmel’s Associated Student Body decided to pivot, turning the energy toward the Shoe Game.
“We couldn’t make the timing of the homecoming parade work this year, and this was our pivot,” comments ASB teacher Aubrey Powers. “The City of Carmel has been gracious to help make it happen.”
The idea was discussed between principal Libby Duethman and Powers, along with Padre Parents president Kati Enea and the City of Carmel. Organization and planning has mostly been led by Powers, ASB president Drew Galy, ASB vice president Sebastian Blessing, ASB secretary Cynthia Padilla, health teacher Leigh Cambra and assistant principal Laurel Gast.
The parade is expected to feature homecoming royalty in donated cars from Monterey Touring Vehicles and clubs, fall sports, cheer and dance showing off their spirit as they walk down Ocean Avenue after school Friday at 3:30.
“We’re hoping for as many students as possible to walk downtown to celebrate,” adds Powers. “Usually shoppers, parents and families come as well.”
While ASB gears up for the parade, the football team prepares to hang onto the bronzed Shoe once again, holding a winning streak against P.G. since 2015.
“Our number one goal every season is to win the Shoe,” says Anderson. “It means everything to the team.”
The team has remained dedicated and optimistic, stacking good practices and building consistency, preparing for this game throughout the season. Despite struggles, they have high hopes to pull through with another win Saturday.
“The atmosphere is what makes it so great,” says Carmel sports medicine teacher Matt Borek. “It’s the biggest crowd we get all year, even bigger than homecoming.”
From elementary schoolers to alumni, generations gather to cheer on their side. Win or lose, the Shoe Game remains a celebration of spirit and community pride.
Due to the large audience, Powers recommends all students to arrive early to secure a seat.
The 78th annual Shoe Game kicks off Saturday, Nov. 8, at PGHS Stadium, JV at 5 p.m. and varsity at 7:30.
