Garbage Bowl - How IT Is Played

How It Is Played

The match takes place between two teams, the Northern Combines and the Southern Bombers. The players are not paid and volunteer their time and effort in order to raise donations. Historically, the Northern Combines are made up of Montreal West residents living North of the C.P.R. Crossing while the Southern Bombers are made up of those living South of it. This division isn't stressed as much as in the early years, as many non-residents now participate in the game. Many players have played the game yearly for upwards of 20 years and the age of players varies considerably between teenagers and those in their 50's. Each team is made up of a 30 man roster (on average).

Proceeds from the game are donated to children's and youth organizations supported by the Montreal Westward Rotary Club. Each year the Garbage Bowl donates upwards of $10,000 in this way. Some of the proceeds come from the purchasing of Garbage Bowl Buttons, with a new one being produced each year. Examples can be seen in a picture on the right-hand side of this page.

The Garbage Bowl is known for its generous donations and for the fact that grown men are playing football in their pyjamas. But more than anything, it's the fact that the game is often played on frigid cold days and involves icy and/or snow laden conditions.