Schools
The Bell Game returns: Desert Vista vs. Mountain Pointe, explained
Ahwatukee's biggest rivalry night is back. Here's the history of the trophy, where to park, and why the whole village shows up.
By Marcus Chen · May 12, 2026 · 5 min read
Two Ahwatukee high school campuses at golden hour
Once a year, Ahwatukee picks a side. The Bell Game — the football rivalry between Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe, the two Tempe Union high schools that split the village — is the closest thing 85044/85048 has to a civic holiday.
The winner takes home the bell. Bragging rights last twelve months. Both student sections sell out, both bands go all-in, and a surprising number of alumni who haven't been to a game in years suddenly remember exactly where they sat.
If you're new to Ahwatukee: it doesn't matter which feeder pattern you're in, you'll have an opinion by kickoff. Parking fills early — plan to walk a few blocks, and bring cash for the boosters' concession stand.
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Western Ahwatukee — Club West, Equestrian Estates, Upper Canyon, Foothills Reserve.
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Heart of the Foothills — Lakewood, Mountain Park Ranch, Foothills Club, Calabrea.
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