1-8 Stonehill travels to 5-5 Lafayette in a random non-conference game that many people will overlook. However, this game could be the start of something special. Both schools call the town of Easton home. Stonehill is in Easton, Massachusetts, while Lafayette is in Easton, Pennsylvania. Like South Carolina and Missouri, both located in cities named Columbia; Stonehill and Lafayette should play for a Mayors’ Trophy.
Starting a Mayor’s Cup has multiple benefits for both programs and communities. The creation of the Mayors’ Trophy gives Stonehill another rival. The Skyhawks need FCS rivals. Stonehill left behind most of their Northeast-10 rivals after moving to the Northeast Conference. The one rival that followed them, Merrimack, is no longer in the Northeast Conference with them, diminishing the allure of the series. The Skyhawks and the Northeast Conference benefit from the exposure of a rivalry with a program with as much history and tradition as Lafayette.
Furthermore, the addition of a trophy could increase attendance at Lafayette for a previously overlooked non-conference game. Most fans likely see Stonehill’s relatively short program life of 28 years and overlook them compared to the many elder statesmen of the Patriot League. The fascination and stakes of a trophy game could bring more casual local fans to Fisher Stadium.
Finally, both communities benefit from the increased tourism created by this rivalry. Both Easton, MA and Easton, PA have populations of less than 30,000 citizens. The added promotion and publicity from a trophy-awarding rivalry game could bring a small influx of tourism to boost local businesses. Nearby big cities overshadow both towns, so any attention helps bring visitors.
Fun and wacky quirks make college football the unique game it is. Lafayette and Stonehill should play into civic pride and add increased stakes to future games with a trophy.
