In the heart of downtown New Brunswick, a steakhouse becomes the gathering place for a unique tradition that predates smartphones, social media, and even the internet. Every last Sunday in August, twelve men—most of them in their 60s—don football jerseys, order coffee before 11 a.m., and spend the day drafting teams for the Sigma Pi fantasy football league.
From a Rutgers fraternity to a multi‑generational ritual
The league began in 1992 when eight Rutgers University fraternity brothers created a fantasy football competition called Sigma Pi, named after the fraternity where they first met. Dave Koval, now 61, has served as commissioner since the league’s inception. He recalls the early days: “We used the USA Today newspaper, hand‑copied stats, and made our picks on paper. It was before the internet, before standard rules.”
Scott Page, the league’s self‑described curmudgeon, adds, “Back then it was just guys getting together, watching the game, arguing. ‘Your guy sucks, he’s no good!’ It was more fun then, but the spirit lives on.”
Keeping the bond alive as the years go by
Now the draft is a full‑day affair. The men start drinking coffee before 11 a.m., break for burgers around noon, and stay well into the evening. The event is more than a competition; it is a social anchor for a group of friends who have known each other for over three decades.
Page, who still refuses to use a laptop for the draft, relies on paper notes, prompting good‑natured teasing from the others about “auto‑draft.” Yet he admits, “Getting together even once a year with that regularity is special. This is as close as men can get and still be friends.”
New faces, old friendships
Six of the original owners remain active, and the league has welcomed younger members, including the sons of longtime participants. Mark Pascal, who owns the steakhouse where the draft is held, stepped back from active competition in 2004 but continues to serve as a trusted adviser. His son Dominic, 22, joined this year, marking the third generation of the Pascal family in the league.
Brian Pascal, 37, grew up watching his father’s trophy and now competes alongside his dad’s brother, Chris, who also runs a decades‑old fantasy baseball league. “I feel like I grew up in fantasy football culture,” Brian says.
Why the league matters
Fantasy sports remain popular nationwide—19 % of American adults, or more than 50 million people, participate, according to the Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association. For these New Brunswick men, the activity is less about money and more about community, continuity, and a shared history.
While the entry fee has risen modestly from $100 to $130 over the years, the league deliberately downplays the financial aspect, focusing instead on camaraderie. “If I spent one‑tenth of the time I spend on fantasy on stocks, I’d be rich,” Koval jokes, noting his eleven league championships.
Facing life’s milestones together
The league has weathered retirements, relocations, marriages, and even the loss of parents. Koval’s father passed away at 99 this summer, and the men gathered at the draft to honor his memory. They also share life events—weddings, births, funerals—strengthening the ties that bind them.
Nick Mosso, another original member, recently survived a pulmonary embolism. His son Dominic stepped in as co‑owner, ensuring the Mosso legacy continues. “I hope he forms a camaraderie with everyone,” Nick says, looking toward the next generation.
A tradition worth preserving
In an era when many men experience social isolation, the Sigma Pi league offers a tangible reminder that friendships can endure beyond college years, careers, and family responsibilities. As one participant puts it, “We’ve all had ups and downs, but what the league gives you is something you can count on.”
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
