NEWARK — For the third year in a row, Dover High lifted the Unified Flag Football state championship trophy.
The Senators won a tightly contested final, 26-18, over Smyrna High on Saturday …
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By Tim MastroNEWARK — For the third year in a row, Dover High lifted the Unified Flag Football state championship trophy.
The Senators won a tightly contested final, 26-18, over Smyrna High on Saturday at Delaware Stadium. It was the sixth year the DIAA awarded a state title for Unified Flag Football — a joint venture between Special Olympics Delaware and the DIAA.
“It’s really hard to describe,” said Dover High coach Gavin Schukoske. “Even though this is our third win in a row for the state championship, it always feels brand new. These kids, they played their hearts out, and that’s all we ever ask of them. They got the ultimate prize, something they can take with them for the rest of their lives. We’re really excited about that.”
The Senators finished their season at 7-1 overall. The one loss on their record was a regular-season setback to Smyrna, which they were able to avenge on Saturday behind two touchdowns from Nathan Miller, one from Steven Powell and another from Tyere Dennis.
Miller’s second half touchdown broke an 18-18 tie and the Senators then hung on defensively.
Dover has won the most Unified Flag Football state titles with three, edging ahead of Newark Charter’s two for the most all-time.
“It’s important for inclusion,” Schukoske said of the sport. “Everybody needs to feel like they’re a big part of their community. I think it’s obvious we do a great job of that at Dover High. Ten years ago, these kids wouldn’t have had the chance to play. Now we’re sitting here, holding up a state trophy.”
Smyrna (7-1) was led by Amir Lloyd-Wheeler who scored a pair of touchdowns and Kylie Thomas, who contributed two touchdown passes. Armoni Rollins also scored for the Eagles.
“Our guys were kind of upset at the end but I had to remind them to look around and enjoy the moment and the stage they are on,” said Smyrna coach Andrew Mears. “This will be something they can always reflect on. I don’t know if being first or second is as important as being here at this stadium and playing in front of your family, friends and community.”
