SouthCoast Thanksgiving Football Game Supports Sensory Play Space

Before the turkey goes in the oven and before the parade floats down your TV, a dedicated group of SouthCoast friends, neighbors and soon-to-be friends gather for one of the area’s most beloved Thanksgiving rituals: the annual two-hand-touch flag football game at Fairhaven’s Mariner Field.

Every year, the motley crew meets at 8 a.m. sharp, tosses on gloves, sips their coffee, and warms up for a friendly-but-competitive 9 a.m. kickoff. Rain or shine, the game goes on – soaked sneakers, frozen fingers, mud and all – and by the end, everyone leaves a little tired but a whole lot happier.

Truthfully, it's a solid workout before the grand feast.

What started as a small pick-up meet-up has transformed into an annual tradition built on giving back to the local community. This year, the cause hits even closer to home for one of the organizers.

Playing for a Cause That Matters

This year’s Turkey Day game will support Little Wanderers Sensory Play, Fall River’s first indoor sensory-based playroom for kids ages 0-8, located at 418 Quequechan Street.

For lead organizer Sean Cote, choosing Little Wanderers wasn’t just an act of goodwill – it was personal. Cote and his wife are raising a three-year-old with autism, and Little Wanderers has become an invaluable part of their support system. The space offers sensory exploration, safe play, structured activities, and a welcoming environment for all children, especially those with sensory sensitivities or neurodiverse needs.

READ MORE: The Mission Behind Fall River's Little Wanderers Sensory Play

“Seeing firsthand what a place like this can provide for kids and families, it just made sense,” Cote shared. “It’s something that really resonates with us.”

Supporting a Growing Community Resource

Since opening, Little Wanderers has become an integral part of the local autism and early-childhood community, providing a space where kids can learn, grow and explore without judgment. Donations from the Thanksgiving game will help with equipment, programming, and continued accessibility for families in need.

Come Show Support on Thanksgiving Morning

All player slots for this year’s game are already filled, but the community is encouraged to stop by, cheer on the teams and support the cause. Whether you swing through with a coffee, make a donation or simply show some love from the sidelines, your presence helps fuel the spirit of the morning and the mission behind it.