Xavier students sat on one side of the room - Middletown students on the other. It's like it's always been, I was told.

The banquet, now in its 13th year, is held every year prior to the big Thanksgiving Day football game to encourage sportsmanship and camaraderie between the two schools.

Xavier is undefeated this season and Middletown has a chance to go to the playoffs.

"Anyone who thinks they know what's gonna happen Thursday morning could end up very surprised Thursday afternoon," Middletown Mayor Sebastian Giuliano said. "Both teams have a lot to play for."

The game will be played at Wesleyan's Andrus Field, the oldest continually used football field in the United States, according to sports correspondent Jim Bransfield, who was also an emcee at Tuesday's banquet.
"You are going to play on hallowed ground," he told the players.

Middletown coach Sal Morello said he is real proud of his team this year. Xavier coach Sean Marinan encouraged his players to "finish the job."

Wesleyan head football coach Mike Whalen encouraged all students to work hard - in the classroom and on the field.

READ JIM BRANSFIELD'S STORY HERE AND SEE VIDEOS FROM THE BANQUET