Story By Jordan Spurgeon
After missing the first three games of the season due to a COVID-19 outbreak, the Chaparral Firebirds are 6A Champions. 2020 was really unlike any other for this squad, but they capped it off by beating the Highland Hawks 24-14 on Saturday.
Your 6A Champion 💍 @ChapfootballAZ pic.twitter.com/SfLHMGBG4T
— Jordan Spurgeon (@spurge_) December 12, 2020
“Once we got back out there we did everything we could and we made it to the championship,” Chaparral quarterback Brayten Silbor said. “Our goal was not just to get to the championship, it was to win it. We did that and it just feels unreal I’m not going to lie.”
The Firebirds held a 14-7 lead at half thanks to two five minute plus drives that ended in rushing touchdowns. The second half came down to the defense making key stops and forcing two turnovers.
Halftime now after the Firebirds take the lead! RB Jared Williams (@JaredJWilliams0) punches it in. @ChapfootballAZ 14 | @HighlandHawksFB 7 @Sports360AZ pic.twitter.com/tE1LdNABYD
— Jordan Spurgeon (@spurge_) December 12, 2020
FUMBLE 🏈
Firebirds recover & will try to run the clock to end the game. @ChapfootballAZ 24 | @HighlandHawksFB 14 | 4:38 remaining @Sports360AZ pic.twitter.com/YAVkghtRfZ
— Jordan Spurgeon (@spurge_) December 12, 2020
“We had two film sessions a day just to get ready for this game,” Chaparral defensive lineman Anthony Lucas said.
Despite missing three games this season, the Firebirds will chart this season as one to remember, thanks to their perseverance and work ethic. It doesn’t get much better than that.