Annual Bell Game brings former rivals together to help community

It’s another year of the undisputed biggest rivalry in the valley with two programs that helped put local football on the California map.

Story by Cody Krupp

For the 58th time there will be bragging rights on the line.

“This one means a lot more than every other game this season. This game means so much to other people so we play for them.” Offensive Linemen for the Arabs Jose Cuevas said.

“Means something for the whole year, something you have to live with and the team that loses has to live with it all year.” said Walt Criner, a former Head Coach of the Arabs from 1969-1972.

A true rivalry that has stood the test of time.

“Most amazing things I have seen in my career and I have been a part of some big games. This is something else and I love it. Literally what high school sports is all about.” Head Coach of the Arabs Brett Davis said.

With it comes 57-years of former players and coaches that have took the field. Either wearing the Rajahs blue.

“We had the belt here hidden in the corner for years. We took it out every year and rang it to back to school night and pep rallies and that.” Ovivio Machado, Indio’s Athletic Director said.

Or the mean green machine.

“Oh year green and gold all the way even though I don’t have my hat on now.” Criner added.

Or somewhere in between.

“Myself and my kids are Rajahs where my wife and her sibilings are all Arabs.” Head Coach of the Rajahs Martin White said.

This year they are expecting over 300 to come back for the first annual CV-Indio Reunion…

Whether coaches, or former players.

“Played for the Arabs from 1955-1959.” Former player and Athletic Director at Coachella Valley Rich Ramirez said.

“Played football from 1961-1964.” Mike Shmorhun, a former Arab player said.

A chance to not only remember the glory days, but to give back.

“Give scholarships to a CV and Indio Student.” Criner finished.

“Provide an opportunity for these kids to advance, move up, be better, become men or women.” Shmorhun added.

Just like the Arabs hope to grow their 5-game winning streak in the Battle for the Bell, but don’t sleep on the Indio Rajahs.

“We will be a team of discipline, a team of control, a team of effort.” Martin White finished.

“We’re coming for you, we’re coming for you.”