Caden Henritzy and Tyrese Brandon are recognized as two of the most prominent athletes in Northampton football history, as they are the two top rushers respectively in school history.

Last season, Henritzy broke Brandon’s record of 2,767 yards that he left upon his graduation in 2018. Henritzy finished his career last year with 3,635 yards.

However, both of them have plenty of memories from their playing days, some of the most prominent ones being in the annual Thanksgiving Day game.

Ironically, both of them were the game’s Most Valuable Players during their senior season of the game.

Both will likely be in attendance for the 101st meeting next Thursday in Northampton.

Henritzy ran for 138 yards with two touchdowns in last season’s 47-7 victory over Catasauqua. He currently is a freshman linebacker at Stonehill College, and he has 41 tackles through six games.

Through the years, the game always has held a special place for him.

“My last carry in high school was an 80-yard touchdown run, and it was a great way to go out,” noted Henritzy. “I also remember my sophomore year when Luke Baker hit Cooper King with a pass. It was awesome seeing a lineman throwing to a quarterback.

“The Turkey Day game against Catty always is fun. Last year was special because it was the 100th game. Every year, it was fun to go out with my teammates and play against Catasauqua.

“The communities coming together to participate is truly something special. It’s definitely going to be different watching it this year instead of playing in it. I’m going to miss it.”

Brandon ran for 105 yards and two touchdowns in a 49-14 victory in the 2018 game. He currently is a fifth-year graduate running back at East Stroudsburg University. Brandon has 85 yards rushing and has caught 26 passes for 344 yards with a touchdown. The Warriors are 10-1 and headed to the NCAA Division II playoffs this weekend.

Like Henritzy, Brandon knows the importance of the game to both towns, and has plenty of memories.

“The Turkey Day game is a special day for the communities of Catty and Northampton,” he stated. “My favorite memory would have to be the 2018 game.

“It was freezing cold, and I was playing ball with some of my brothers for the last time. Being able to watch generations play is something special.

“I hope they continue the tradition.”