The Little Big Game: BHS vs. San Mateo

Community of Burlingame,

Rich in history and local lore, the contest between San Mateo and Burlingame, both part of the San Mateo Union High School District, began in 1927. Calvin Coolidge occupied the White House.

Entering today’s test, Burlingame leads the all-time series with San Mateo, 48 wins to 32. There have been four ties. More often than not, the game has been extremely competitive.

Some of the great athletes in the history of San Mateo County prep football have played in the Little Big Game. Dotting those past rosters are memorable names like: Fena, Kahler, Mack, Emery, Sauer, Tuipulotu, Issa, Swann, Barton, Walen, Williams, Reyes, Haysbert, Jackson, Stikes, Haskins, Whitney, Fleming, Kefu, Carboni, Takahashi, Shiller, Bakhtiari and the impressive list goes on.

What makes this traditional San Mateo Union High School District rivalry so special? Perhaps Richard Tubbs, San Mateo’s principal in 1975, summed it up best when he stated that, “The game belongs to the community. It is part of the community. It is a heritage here, just like the school itself.”

Few would argue with that assessment. Today, the Little Big Game continues as it has through the 84 previous meetings between the two old PAL rivals.

Fabulous food will be offered in support of the Burlingame Athletic Boosters.  

BHS Community -- Come out and support your Burlingame Panthers.

Robyn Buckingham

President, BHS Athletic Boosters