The Art of Touch Football with Rich Morell of Camp Birch Hill

Everyone knows that the best part of Thanksgiving isn't the turkey or watching the Lions lose; it's the family touch football game at halftime. This is the time to lace up the sneakers, put on the warpaint and tackle granny. Okay, just kidding on the last part, but touch football is as much Thanksgiving as the pilgrims, so here are a few tips from Rich Morell of Camp Birch Hill to get your game started. Football is just one of the many activities that are offered at Camp Birch Hill. Because the campers are able to pick their own activities, some may take what they learn on the family backyard and apply it to the camp field and then who knows.....okay maybe not, but these tips can make for a fun game.

1. Remember that the game is two hand touch. You don't want any trips to the emergency room on Thanksgiving Day. At the very least, even if its not serious, the person preparing the meal will not be happy if nobody is there to eat it. 
2. Teams should be picked fairly. Alternate between girls and boys and keep ages similar for subsequent picks to ensure that it's not the New England vs. the Temple Owls. 
3. Touchdown dances are expected and welcomed. This is not the NFL; Goodell won't fine you, although if you do it to your dad, he may make you wash the dishes.
4. Have fun. Thanksgiving is all about togetherness. Many of us don't see our families too often, so this is the time to reconnect and enjoy time well spent with one another.

Happy Holidays!