Mayor Anthony Staffieri issued a challenge to Ansonia Mayor James Della Volpe regarding this Friday’s Derby-Ansonia football game.
The two teams haven’t played each other since 2003. The rivalry, however, stretches back to 1902.
This morning, after a press conference on economic development, Staffieri said he’s offered to wear a blue jacket from Della Volpe if Ansonia wins the game.
If Derby wins, Della Volpe is supposed to wear a red jacket from Derby.
Generally speaking, Ansonia is thought to be the favorite, but at least one Naugatuck Valley League expert is picking Derby for the upset.
Staffieri thinks the Red Raiders can pull it off, and, if they don’t, he’s fine wearing blue.
“I have thick skin. If I have to do it I will,” Staffieri said.
Della Volpe’s response: Bring it.
The Ansonia mayor said he’s had friendly wagers in the past with Seymour and Naugatuck — but it’s the first time he’s thrown down with Derby.
“I prevailed in those,” Della Volpe said. “Actually, I think with Bob (Koskelowski), there might have been a game we lost.”
Koskelowski is Seymour’s First Selectman.
Della Volpe said he’s happy to see the two teams playing again, considering their shared history.
“At one time we were together. Division Street literally divides the two cities,” he said.
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