A century after capturing the 1925 NFL World Championship, the Maroons will be honored with a 100th anniversary celebration on Saturday, Aug. 16, at Mountain Valley Golf Course in Branchdale.

The commemorative event will begin at 5 p.m. and is being organized by the Maroons Centennial Committee in collaboration with the Schuylkill County Historical Society. It will recognize the Maroons’ historic achievement and their enduring legacy in the development of professional football.

A milestone

in NFL history

The Maroons’ story began in Pottsville in the early 20th century. In 1925, the team rose to national prominence with a World Championship title that helped shape the early years of the NFL. The team’s success, driven by grit, talent and the support of a passionate community, has remained a source of pride in Schuylkill County for generations.

The celebration will feature a reception, banquet dinner, guest speakers, and interactive exhibits. It will also include the presentation of historical artifacts and memorabilia that highlight the team’s impact on the region and the league.

Special guests

and speakers

Several former NFL players will be in attendance, including Marvin Washington, John Booty and Mark Kelso, along with former North Carolina basketball standout Dante Calabria.

Washington played defensive end for the New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers and Denver Broncos — where he won a Super Bowl in 1999. He will serve as the event’s keynote speaker.

Booty played eight years as a defensive back in the NFL, suiting up for the Jets, Giants, Eagles, Buccaneers and the Phoenix Cardinals — the franchise controversially awarded the 1925 title after a disputed league decision involving the Maroons.

Kelso, a safety for the Buffalo Bills, appeared in four consecutive Super Bowls from 1990-93. He has ties to the local area and later served as a radio color commentator for the Bills from 2006 to 2019.

Calabria was a member of the University of North Carolina men’s basketball team that won the 1993 NCAA championship. He went on to a successful professional career in Europe and is now the head coach of Pistoia Basket 2000 in Italy’s top division.

The program will also feature presentations from authors and historians who have written extensively about the Maroons and their place in football history.

Honoring community and preserving legacy

In addition to celebrating the team’s NFL title, the event will recognize individuals and organizations who have worked to preserve the Maroons’ story and connect new generations to the team’s legacy.

Local schools, youth football teams and community groups are encouraged to attend. A portion of the proceeds will support historic preservation and educational outreach initiatives related to the Maroons and the region’s football heritage.

Event details

and ticket information

The 100th anniversary celebration will be held Saturday, Aug. 16, at 5 p.m. at Mountain Valley Golf Course in Branchdale. Tickets are available online at www.schuylkillhistory.org and at the Schuylkill County Historical Society. Early registration is encouraged due to limited space.

Admission includes access to all evening events, a commemorative gift, and opportunities to meet NFL guests and speakers.

For group rates, sponsorship information or volunteer opportunities, visit the Historical Society’s website or contact the Maroons Centennial Committee at sch.hist@comcast.net or 570-622-7540.