The Bell Game is a rivalry football game between the Terra Linda High School Trojans and the San Rafael High School Bulldogs. This rivalry has been going on for 64 years, and it is one of the biggest football rivalries in Marin. Both schools are competing to win a metal trophy known as the Bell. The Bell Game brings a huge amount of school spirit, demonstrated through the intense student sections filled with a sea of school colors, chants, and cheering. The Bell Game is the biggest game of the year and one of the most fun events we have here at TL.
The excitement starts well before the game itself with a rally at school, which gets everyone excited and brings the whole school together. By the time the game starts, there’s even more energy in the student section with everyone cheering and reacting to what is happening on the field.
This year, our student section really brought their A-game, with dozens of TL students dressed in all white cheering along from the sidelines. I feel like the student section makes the game a lot more exciting because there are so many people reacting to what’s happening on the field, which makes it a lot more interesting to watch and keeps the fun in the game. Bell Game is honestly my favorite football game and one of my favorite parts of being at TL.” In this way, the student section is a huge part of what makes the Bell Game special and unique.
“Everyone’s so spirited, especially in the theme department, and they are very engaging with our cheers when we are cheering from the sidelines.” Crosby added. “Since it was a night game this year, it was extra fun because everyone was having so much at night.” At the Bell Game,the crowd is louder, the students are more involved, and there is a sense that everyone is there to support our school. When the crowd is participating in the cheers, it helps make the entire game feel more connected and energetic.
Sarah also mentions that, “The vibes are always so much fun at Bell Game,” Varsity cheerleader Sarah Crosby (‘28) said. “It is unlike any other game as the students are even more invested in it, and there is always such a big turnout.” The huge student turnout and level of care that students demonstrate at the Bell Game highlights the importance of the tradition to the student body.
Bell Game gives students something to look forward to and creates memories. This rivalry game adds another level of school spirit and upholds traditions that students can look forward to every year. It’s an amazing experience and tradition we have here at TL, and it is something that brings the entire school community together. TL already cannot wait to bring the Bell back next year. We are so excited to bring the ultimate school spirit to the 2027-2028 school year.
