Delaware’s Blue-Gold All*Star Football Game: A Tradition That Celebrates All ABILITIES

By Marie Vacca, Executive Director of the DFRC

Since 1956, the Delaware Blue-Gold All*Star Football Game has stood apart from other high school All*Star games—not because of the athletes on the field, but because of the heart behind the event. More than a football tradition, Blue-Gold is a celebration of the human spirit, rooted in the belief that every person should be seen not for their disABILITY, but for their capABILITIES.

What makes this game unique is its deep personal connection to children and young adults with intellectual disABILITIES. In the months leading up to the game, players, cheerleaders, band members and student ambassadors are paired with a “Buddy”—an individual between the ages of 4 and 18 with an intellectual disABILITY. These bonds become the true highlight of the season.

Many young Participants come into the experience thinking they will teach or inspire their Buddies, only to discover the opposite. They walk away transformed by the joy, love, and wisdom of the individuals they were meant to mentor. The game becomes a lesson in empathy, respect, and inclusion—lessons that last a lifetime.

For almost 70 years, this experience has left an indelible mark on Delaware. Since 1956, $6.4 million has been distributed to local organizations to help support programs that enrich the lives of Delawareans living with intellectual disABILITIES.

In Delaware, inclusion isn’t an afterthought—it’s a value, fostered by generations who’ve come through the Blue-Gold program. This year, the organization is calling on every individual, group, and business who believes in celebrating people’s ABILITIES to join them at what they call the “most important football game of the year.”

Come honor the athletes—and the message: Delaware is a place that sees the strength in every person, and chooses to lead with love, acceptance, and inclusion — celebrating all ABILITIES.

To learn more about DFRC or to purchase game day tickets, visit www.dfrc.org

About DFRC’s Marie Vacca:

Marie A. Vacca, MBA, CFRE, is the Executive Director of DFRC (Delaware Foundation Reaching Citizens with intellectual disABILITIES), a nonprofit based in Newark, Delaware. DFRC is renowned for its Blue-Gold All★Star Football Game and the Hand-in-Hand Program, both of which aim to enrich the lives of Delawareans with intellectual disabilities.

In her role, Vacca leads fundraising initiatives and community engagement efforts. She holds a Master of Business Administration and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), reflecting her expertise in nonprofit leadership and development.

Vacca has been instrumental in promoting DFRC’s mission, notably participating in events like the ceremonial kickoff of the 69th annual Blue-Gold All★Star Football Game alongside Delaware Governor Matt Meyer. Her leadership underscores a commitment to fostering inclusion and celebrating the abilities of all individuals.

Staff Writer

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