By D.M. Livingston|Published Aug 25, 2025

Last Updated Dec 3, 2025 5:58PM

Waterbury-As the crisp air of autumn settles over Waterbury, sports fans in the city are reminded of the glory days of high school football. One of the most anticipated events each year used to be the Waterbury Football Jamboree, held at Municipal Stadium, where teams like Wilby, Crosby, Kennedy, and Sacred Heart squared off to kick off the season with fierce competition and spirited camaraderie. The Jamboree was not just about the game—it was a celebration of community, pride, and tradition.

One unforgettable moment that still lingers in the minds of many came in 1998, when the Wilby Wildcats made a statement for the ages. That year, they swept both quarters of the Jamboree, dominating Kennedy and Crosby, before walking off the field with their heads held high and “Super Thug” by Noriega blaring through the stadium speakers. As the victorious players chanted “Wiilllby! What What!!! Wiiiilby! What What!!!,” the roar of the crowd echoed through the stands, a testament to the power of local pride and school spirit.

But since those days, the Jamboree has been absent from the Waterbury sports calendar. So, the question is: Is it time to bring back the Jamboree?

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A Tradition Worth Reviving

The Jamboree was more than just a game—it was an event. It was an opportunity for local teams to build excitement for the season ahead, giving fans a first glimpse of the new talent and strategies that would define the year. It also gave schools a chance to showcase their pride and unity, making it a unifying event for Waterbury’s diverse neighborhoods.

In the late ’90s, the competition was intense. The city’s four biggest teams—Wilby, Crosby, Kennedy, and Sacred Heart—had some of the most passionate fanbases in Connecticut. The rivalry between these teams added another layer of energy to the games. And even though it was technically a preseason jamboree, the intensity of the matchups felt like playoff football. The stadium would be packed with alumni, students, and families, all eager to see how their team measured up before the regular season began.

The culture surrounding the Jamboree was contagious. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about showing up for your city, for your school, and for your teammates. The sound of the “Wiilllby! What What!!!” chant that echoed through Municipal Stadium wasn’t just the pride of one team; it was a call for the entire city to rally around its athletes and celebrate the game of football together.

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The State of Waterbury High School Football Today

Waterbury’s high school football scene has certainly changed since those days. Some schools have faced challenges with enrollment, coaching staff turnover, and other issues. However, the spirit of competition and pride remains a fundamental part of the city’s culture. Teams like Wilby, Crosby, and Kennedy continue to field competitive squads, and there are still die-hard fans eager to see their teams face off in an electric atmosphere.

There is an undeniable desire among the community to bring back that tradition of unity and excitement. Many fans have reminisced about the days when Municipal Stadium came alive with the energy of the Jamboree, and local coaches and administrators have expressed support for the idea of reviving it. Not only would it provide an opportunity for schools to test their rosters in a competitive setting, but it could also serve as a catalyst for boosting school spirit and engagement.

A New Era, A New Jamboree

Of course, the logistics of organizing a Jamboree in today’s landscape would need to be addressed. With scheduling conflicts, the costs of organizing a major event, and the evolving needs of the teams, reviving the Jamboree would require careful planning. But the return of this tradition could serve as a unifying force for the city, one that draws fans from all walks of life back to Municipal Stadium to celebrate high school football and its rich legacy in Waterbury.

Imagine the excitement of local teams once again walking onto that field, with bands playing, cheerleaders rallying the crowd, and the fans chanting in unison. Imagine the thrill of seeing the likes of Wilby, Crosby, Kennedy, and now WCA and Kaynor Tech ( r.i.p) (Sacred Heart) facing off in a series of short, hard-fought scrimmages, all while building anticipation for the official start of the season.

For those who remember the Jamboree’s glory days, there’s no doubt that it’s time to bring it back. The spirit of competition, camaraderie, and community that defined those games is something Waterbury needs again.

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What Do You Think?

It’s been years since we’ve felt the electric atmosphere of the Football Jamboree at Municipal Stadium. But could it be time for a revival? Whether it’s to honor tradition, revitalize school spirit, or simply bring back the thrill of local football, one thing is clear: Waterbury’s community is ready to relive the magic.

Is it time to bring back the Jam? Let us know your thoughts.

#BringBackTheJam #WaterburyFootball