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Pflugerville's 'Daddy Days' Bowl Games: A 20+ Year Tradition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 15:05 GMT by Austin American-Statesman

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From Backyard Fun to Local Tradition: The Rise of Pflugerville's "Daddy Days" Bowl Games

For over two decades, a unique and heartwarming tradition has been unfolding in Pflugerville, Texas: "Daddy Days," a series of friendly, yet competitive, backyard bowl games organized by local fathers. What started as a small gathering to entertain their children has blossomed into a beloved community event, fostering father-child bonds, and providing a welcome dose of wholesome, screen-free fun. This article summarizes the history, evolution, and current state of Daddy Days, exploring its impact on the Pflugerville community.

The tradition began in 2002 with Ryan Johnson, then a young father looking for ways to connect with his sons, Brayden and Blake. Seeking an alternative to constant video games and television, Johnson envisioned a series of simple, outdoor challenges. The first "Daddy Day" consisted of three events – a football throw, a basketball shoot, and a beanbag toss – held in his backyard. The stakes were low, the prizes modest (usually candy), and the focus was purely on spending quality time with his kids.

However, word spread quickly amongst Johnson’s circle of friends. Soon, other dads were requesting to join, bringing their own children and a growing sense of playful rivalry. The games expanded, evolving beyond the initial three events to include miniature golf constructed from PVC pipe, water balloon tosses, obstacle courses, and even a “Dad Dash” footrace. Each year, the games became more elaborate, driven by the dads’ collective creativity and the kids’ enthusiastic participation.

What truly distinguishes Daddy Days isn’t just the games themselves, but the spirit of collaboration and community it has cultivated. The event quickly outgrew Johnson's backyard, moving to local parks like Pfluger Park. This necessitated more organization, with dads taking on specific roles: course builders, judges, scorekeepers, and of course, grill masters. The competition became friendly but sincere, with points awarded for each event, culminating in the awarding of the coveted “Daddy Days Trophy” – a rotating award that the winning father proudly displays until the next competition.

The article highlights the increasing focus on inclusivity. Originally geared towards fathers and sons, the event has increasingly welcomed mothers, daughters, and even grandparents. While the name remains "Daddy Days," the event is truly a family affair. This evolution reflects a deliberate effort to broaden participation and demonstrate that the core values of connection and fun apply to all family members. Johnson emphasizes that it’s not about athletic prowess; it's about participating, encouraging, and creating memories.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a significant challenge in 2020, forcing the cancellation of the in-person event. However, the tradition persevered, adapting to the circumstances with a “Daddy Days at Home” version. Dads and families participated in modified games in their own backyards, sharing photos and videos online. This demonstrated the resilience of the community and the deep-rooted attachment to the tradition. The event returned to Pfluger Park in 2021, albeit with modified safety protocols, and has continued to thrive in subsequent years.

The impact of Daddy Days extends beyond a single day of fun. It has served as a catalyst for stronger family bonds, encouraged outdoor activity, and fostered a sense of community pride. The article points out that many participants have been involved since the very beginning, witnessing their children grow up through the years of competition. It’s become a multi-generational event, with "Daddy Days kids" now bringing their own children to participate, perpetuating the tradition for a new generation.

Ryan Johnson, now a grandfather, continues to be the driving force behind Daddy Days, overseeing the organization and ensuring that the event remains true to its original spirit. He views it as a valuable antidote to the increasingly digital and disconnected lives many families lead. He hopes that the tradition will continue for many years to come, reminding families of the importance of simple joys, quality time, and the enduring power of play.

Ultimately, Daddy Days is more than just a series of backyard games; it’s a testament to the power of intentionality and the enduring need for genuine human connection. It's a locally grown tradition that embodies the best of community spirit, and provides a heartwarming example of how simple ideas can have a lasting impact.