The Spaulding High School Red Raider Football team, in partnership with the Red Raider Mothers Club (Spaulding Football Boosters) and Rochester Veterans Council, invites the community to the 1st Annual “Salute to Service” football game on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., as the Red Raiders take on the Manchester Memorial Crusaders.

This special community-wide event is dedicated to recognizing, honoring, and thanking local Veterans and active-duty military service members.

Out of more than 80,000 Veterans in New Hampshire, over 2,500 call Rochester home—giving the city the highest concentration of military Veterans of any community its size in the state.

“Rochester’s deep connection to our military community is something to be celebrated,” said Spaulding Football Coach Andy Jackson, a U.S. Army Veteran. “Spaulding Football wants to show our immense gratitude to the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.”

Supporting Local Veterans Through Vouchers for Veterans

In addition to honoring service members during the game, the event will raise funds to directly support local heroes. Proceeds from special event activities will benefit Vouchers for Veterans, a non-profit organization that provides Veterans with access to fresh, locally grown food at farmers markets.

Fundraising activities throughout the evening will include:

    • A 50/50 raffle
    • Commemorative “Salute to Service” T-shirt sales
    • A raffle for a custom-designed, game-used football
  • Event program sales and direct cash donation options

Event Details

  • What: 1st Annual “Salute to Service” Football Game
  • Who: Spaulding Red Raiders vs. Manchester Memorial Crusaders
    • When: Friday, Oct. 2, 2026
      Gates open at 5:30 p.m. | Ceremony at 6 p.m. | Kickoff at 6:30 p.m.
  • Where: Spaulding High School Football Field, Rochester, N.H.
  • NOTE: Entry is free for Veterans and Military Service Members

Community members, families, and Veterans are encouraged to wear RED (Remember Everyone Deployed) and pack the stands to support both the team and Rochester’s Veteran community.

About the Red Raider Mothers Club

The Red Raider Mothers Club serves as the official booster organization for Spaulding High School Football, dedicated to supporting student-athletes, fostering school spirit, and organizing community engagement initiatives in Rochester, N.H.