A FALCONS’ team that seemed motivated to exact revenge on the CHARGERS for dealing a 7-6 loss to the DIRTY BIRDS in Week 1, did just that in the Middle Division Championship. The FALCONS shut out the number one seed 18-0.
Wide Receiver TaMaya “Cruise Control” Wolford turned in an MVP performance against a CHARGERS team that went 6-0 in the regular season. The talented young lady arguably possesses the best hands in the game. Two of her grabs resulted in touchdowns. As for the rest of her receptions, they either went for big gains or first downs.
Unsurprisingly the FALCONS’ success is a product of Coach Dennis “Shor D” Wolford’s all-time great coaching strategies. Last Sunday, Coach Shor D captured his ninth championship as a Youth League coach. While he will never review the secret to his success, his star player and daughter offered some insights on why her father continues to win.
“He tries to make us keep our heads up even when we mess up,” Maya said.
While Maya was the star of the game, she greatly benefitted from the exceptional decision-making of her quarterback Michael Sabo. The three-time champion has matured into the Middle Division’s most relaxed passer under pressure. On one particular play, Sabo faked the option to Toi Brown, dropped back and hit Maya in stride for the FALCONS’ second score.
Another impressive throw from Sabo occurred on a touchdown throw to underrated WR Jehlani Alston. The wideout described the play to me in detail.
“They faked it to me then they faked it to the other two people behind me,” he said. “That left me wide open because the rusher and corner came up and the safety had to pick up Maya. Next thing I knew I was open at the second pylon.”
Although the CHARGERS did not have many notable big plays, Defensive Back Massimo Adams caught an impressive interception in the second half to give his team a glimmer of hope. Unfortunately, the CHARGERS were unable to convert the turnover into points.
Going undefeated is an accomplishment that Coach Branden Ballard and the CHARGERS should not take lightly; however, losing the championship game was a sour ending to a great season. I expect Coach Ballard’s next team to be title contenders again this summer.
