15th Annual “Bolte Bowl” a Super Bowl Tradition

*The Bolte Bowlers paused their game long enough for a quick group pic (photo S Jason Cole).*

For the past 15 years on Super Bowl Sunday, a group of friends in Excelsior Springs has been gathering to play a friendly game of touch football, what they’ve dubbed “the Bolte Bowl.” The group is made up of close-knit Excelsior Springs Alumni and includes founding members Jeremy Bolte, Jeff White, Brad Hughes, Chad Bishop, Steve Pike, Andy Creason, Chris Schreir, and Bruce Cantwell, amongst others.

*Business up front and party in the back of the endzone! (photo S Jason Cole).*

Over the years the group has grown in size and geographic reach, with players now bringing their kids and visiting alumni joining in the fun on occasion. While some members may not be able to play every year, Bolte said the group remains close and connected through their shared love of the tradition. “We’ve been out here in snow and rain, freezing cold, even if we just come out for 15 minutes… we wouldn’t miss it,” he said.

*Young and not-so-young all have a great time competing for fun (photo S Jason Cole).*

The annual game has become a beloved tradition for the group, bringing them together to celebrate their friendship and love of football. As they mark their 15th year of playing together, the group looks forward to many more years of Super Bowl Sunday football and fun.