One of the biggest rivalry match-ups in B.C. university football is returning after more than a decade.
The BC Lions, who will be the presenting sponsor of the event, announced Shrum Bowl XXXIV (34) will be played on Dec. 2, 2022, between between Simon Fraser University (SFU) and the University of British Columbia (UBC).
Players will take the field at SFU's new stadium, and the game will also be played in 2023.
"We're proud to host Shrum Bowl in SFU’s new stadium atop Burnaby Mountain, and reignite the rivalry between the only two university football programs in the province," said Theresa Hanson, SFU senior director of athletics and recreation, in a news release.
"We're looking forward to capping off our seasons with a full house and a great game!"
The two schools have not played each other on the gridiron since SFU was promoted to NCAA Div. II in 2010. The UBC Thunderbirds currently compete in U-SPORTS as a member of Canada West.
The game will be played after the regular season and playoffs for both teams, and will be recognized by the NCAA as a bowl game for SFU.
"We're thrilled to collaborate with SFU to re-ignite the legendary Shrum Bowl which has long been a terrific event and healthy cross-town rivalry dating back 55 years," added UBC managing director of athletics and recreation Kavie Toor.
"To once again have a Shrum Bowl to look forward to on the calendar is a tremendous engagement and competitive opportunity for both of our football programs, our alumni, our supporters and the student body. I'd also like to thank the BC Lions for their keen interest in helping relaunch the Shrum Bowl and for continuing to support football at all levels in our community."
In the last Shrum Bowl in 2010, Simon Fraser came out on top 27-20 at Thunderbird Stadium.
The SFU-UBC clash has been played 33 times since its inaugural meet on Oct. 16, 1967, which saw SFU beat UBC 32-13 at Vancouver's Empire Stadium.
SFU also holds the all-time series lead with a record of 17-15-1.
The BC Lions say ticket information and other details will be announced at a later date.
"The BC Lions organization is excited and proud to help spearhead the return of an outstanding football tradition for our province," Lions owner Amar Doman explained.
"A major pillar of our brand is the support we give to all levels of amateur football. Putting our name behind the Shrum Bowl revival and watching the next generation of great SFU and UBC players pursuing their professional dreams will be an exciting addition to our growing football calendar and provide yet another outlet to honour the great history of both schools’ football programs."
Earlier this year, both teams received $50,000 from the BC Lions as part of the David Braley Foundation's $250,000 contribution in amateur football in the province.
