The 12U Anthem Jaguars became the state champions over the previously undefeated Cave Creek Falcons in the Arizona Youth Football tournament championship game Nov. 20 held at Pinnacle High School in Phoenix.
“We had an incredible season with amazing players, coaches and families,” said club leader Justin Simons, adding “We are honored to bring a state championship to our local community, and we were proud to represent them.”
The Jaguars 12U youth tackle football team is composed of players ages 12 and 13 from the greater Anthem area and belongs to the National Youth Sports league which serves approximately 45,000 youth each year in seven states.
Formerly known as the Sabercats, the Jaguar Youth Football program began two years ago and serves as a direct feeder team for the Boulder Creek High School Jaguars.
“The championship game was a back and forth game against a very talented and well coached team with lots of exciting plays on both sides of the ball,” Simons told Valley Vibe.
In the end, the Jaguars ended up pulling away, winning by a score of 42–39. The Jags went 10–2 during the fall 2021 season.
Registration for the spring 2022 season is underway. Visit www.jaguaryouthfootball,org or email [email protected]
Anthem 12U Jaguars Team
Cash Williams, Gunnar Koger, Elijah Gomez, Zaniel Dement, Aiden Evans, Austin Koenig, Albert Ennist, Quvohn Lewis, Vinny Angelo, Aaron Knisely, Torin Hamilton, London Olsen, Mark Burgoyne, Carson Stuepfert, Blake Wells, Kaden Rambo, Kaiden Conner, Campbell White, Brody Shaw, Quinn Cothern, Kayne Thoreson, Brodie Moore, Christopher Misselbrook, Brody Wolfenden, Madden Bahr, Gavin Phillips, Carter Schmelzle, Chase Garner, Cade Jasper, Jaxon Simons
Coaches
Josh Bahr, Jimmy Wolfenden, Jim Moore, Justin Simons, Antonio Effinger, Sean Bulmann, Craig Boates, Nick Thoreson, Carter Cameron, Colby Kitson