Is your school looking to join the Passing
Football League for the 2010 Season?
Remember, all teams are FREE and includes: team t-shirts,
shorts, 10 games, percentage of fundraising goes back to the high school
football team, chance to win GRAND Prize for the high
school football team, and enjoy off-season fun playing your favorite sport.
Minimum players needed 10 - maximum players 20, at least one coach
MANDATORY - reliable transportation to and from games at TEMPLE
University.
If you'd like to apply to participate in the ultimate 7-on-7 League (not a
tournament), contact us TODAY!!!
The inaugural season of the Philadelphia Sports Training Center’s (PSTC)
seven-on-seven Passing Football League (PFL) has come to a close after four
months of intense, competitive games. Now we can look back on all of the
exciting games played, and look ahead to the league’s future.
Run from May 23, 2008 until August 9, 2008, the PFL’s season welcomed 11
teams in two divisions: Sneaker Villa and Modell’s. The regular season
ended with these overall standings for the Sneaker Villa division:
1. *University
City Jaguars
2. William Penn
Lions
3. Philadelphia Hilltoppers
4. Overbrook
Panthers
5. Simon Gratz
Bulldogs
6. UTEAP
Seminoles.
The Modell’s
division ended like this:
1. *Team Modell’s
(George Washington H.S.)
2. Bucks County
Rams
3. Neumann-Goretti
Saints
4. Bishop McDevitt
Lancers
5. Team O’Vecka
(Imhotep Charter H. S)
* Division
Champions
The playoffs began on Saturday, July 19, with games played at Temple
University’s Geasey Fields, 15th and Norris streets, at 7 p.m.
Teams played within their divisions before moving to the Division
Championship game on Saturday, July 26. On Saturday, Aug. 2, Sneaker
Villa’s University City Jaguars and Modell’s Bishop McDevitt Lancers battled
it out for the PFL Championship game. Bishop McDevitt persevered and beat
University City 22 – 17. Besides being named champion of PSTC’s
seven-on-seven PFL, The Bishop McDevitt Lancers received the grand prize of
a $1,000 donation to their athletic department.
PSTC has big goals in mind for 2009, and is looking forward to bringing new
opportunities to the student-athletes of Philadelphia. A middle school
division will be offered, giving younger student-athletes the same
opportunity that high school players currently receive - to have a safe and
competitive football league to play in during the summer months. PSTC is
also hoping to partner with the Police Athletic League of Philadelphia for
the middle school division, giving their student-athletes a safe place to
play football, and the opportunity to work with some of the city’s role
models – Philadelphia police officers.
PSTC is also looking to reach beyond the Philadelphia community. Cities
such as Boston, St. Louis, Chicago, Charlotte, N.C., and Nashville, Tenn.,
have shown interest in the PFL. PSTC will also propose to the National
Federation of High Schools the idea of a spring season for high school
football teams to compete in. This will expand the PFL program from late
spring through the summer, giving student-athletes an opportunity to
continue playing football competitively between their school’s fall season
and the PFL’s summer league. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic
Athletic Association (PIAA) and the School District of Philadelphia have
been monitoring the PFL this season to determine if a spring season would be
beneficial.
The inaugural season of the Philadelphia Sports Training Center’s Passing
Football League was an exciting time for everyone. PSTC has a lot to be
proud of from their inaugural season, and there’s a lot to look forward to.
PFL High School All-Star Game
Saturday, August 9th at Temple University (15th & Norris St.)
Modell’s Sporting Goods
All-Stars 32
Sneaker Villa
All-Stars 26
The PFL All-Star game was a
perfect mix of the brightest stars in the league. For the Sneaker Villa
All-Stars, Lamont Paramore tried his hand at the quarterback position and
exceeded expectations throughout the entire contest. Emmanuel Pittman, Joe
Clayborne, Devon Sanders, Frank Coleman, and Saquan Scarborough among others
contributed to an intense game filled with high levels of athleticism and
sportsmanship. The match-up consisted of back and forth play, as touchdowns
were scored after interceptions following almost every possession. Late in
the game, Andrew Siegfried tied his cleats and joined his fellow all-stars.
He went on to score the winning touchdown for the Sneaker Villa All-Stars.
Immediately following the game,
PFL trophies were awarded. Coach of the Year went to Lorrel McCook of
University City Jaguars. Andrew Siegfried was crowned league Most Valuable
Player. Defensive MVP was earned by Saquan Scarborough (William Penn), and
Aaron Wilmer (George Washington) was named offensive MVP. The player with
the most receiving touchdowns was Joe Clayborne (University City), scoring
18. Mike Adens (University City) was awarded the title for most passing
touchdowns (23) on the season. Anthony Bolden received the trophy for most
interceptions, and John Melvin (Sportsmanship) and Anthony Mastrando
(Student-Athlete) for 3.95 grade point average.
PFL High School Championship
Saturday, August 2nd at Temple University (15th & Norris St.)
7:00 PM
Sneaker Villa Division
University City Jaguars (1)
Versus
Modell's Division
Bishop
McDevitt Lancers (2)
Sneaker Villa Clean-UP on Friday, August 8th from 11am - 2pm
Location: McVeigh Recreation Center (D Street & Ontario Street)
Everyone Needed for the clean-up, call to get registered
7/26/08
UNIVERSITY CITY JAGUARS 36,
OVERBROOK PANTHERS 13
By Terrance McNeil
(Philadelphia Tribune), PFL Editor-In-Chief
This battle of the cats went to
the Jags. The athleticism and big play ability of U-City proved to be way
too much for the game, but overmatched Overbrook squad.
Overbrook had a great season. Led
by John “Big Play” Melvin, the Panthers seemed to learn a great deal
throughout the season and got better as the year progressed. Rodney “Hot
Rod” Hall was another impressive Panther throughout the year. As the Robin
to Melvin’s Batman throughout the season, Hall posted some pretty good
games, and showed star potential.
But, back to the game, the
Panthers turned the ball over on downs to open the game. The Jags turned the
ball over on their first possession as Melvin stepped in front of a Michael
“Simon” Adens pass. But after another turnover on downs by Overbrook, Adens
and the Panthers would get it going.
I call Adens “Simon” because he is
the epitome of leadership. He is levelheaded and has control over the U-City
offensive huddle. What he says goes, like Simon Says.
But, it would only take three
plays for the Jaguars to score. Adens would go 3-for-3 on this drive,
including a big 28-yard completion for a first down. The touchdown went to
receiver Michael Gilliam from 11 yards out. The Jags’ conversion attempt
failed and the score was 6-0.
A safety by Gilliam and Amier
“Louie” Washington on the next play would extend the lead to 8-0.
Back-to-back completions to Washington, including a 16-yard touchdown
reception, would result in extending the Jags’ lead to 14-0. The conversion
failed.
After yet another three-and-out by
Overbrook would lead to another score for U-City. The quick strike
capability of the Jaguars’ offense was on full display, as Tariq “Pop Tart”
Gordon would heat up the Panther defense for a 45-yard touchdown catch.
Gordon blew past the defense for this TD and showed great concentration to
haul in the perfect pass from Adens. The conversion failed and the score
was 20-0.
Parrish “You Got Me???” Shoatz
would record a safety to extend the Jaguars’ lead to 22-0.
The Panther D forced a
three-and-out on University City’s next drive, but couldn’t capitalize. Hall
would make a 7-yard grab on the drive, and following an impressive pass
break-up by Adens, Panther newcomer Kendell would make a nifty grab for 11
yards and a first down. But the half ended with Overbrook quarterback
Rashied Overton misfiring on his final two passes.
The last pass he threw cleared the
field confines. It showed that Overton has a rocket launcher attached to his
shoulder. He mishandled the snap, but in a very wise move, picked up the
ball and heaved it toward the end zone. The pass was obviously a bit too
high, but a smart play nonetheless.
The second half began with the
Jaguars in control of the ball and the scoreboard. They would add to their
lead in three plays. Adens hit Joe “Gimme Dat” Clayborne for 13 yards on the
first play. Adens would hit Gilliam for 12 yards and a first down on the
next play. The drive would culminate with a 20-yard strike from Adens to
Washington to make the score 28-0.
“Louie” was definitely in his bag
in this game. He notched two TDs and brought his trademark intensity to the
turf at Temple University.
The Panthers would get on the
board with a well-executed five-play drive that relied heavily on Julius
Faison. The ‘X’ factor all season for the Panthers was the play of the
richly talented Faison.
Faison has the potential to take
over drives and alter games, but he’s rarely involved in the game plan and
usually relegated to blocking duties. A player of his talent should be
making plays. Faison knew it, as he plays with a barely-concealed swagger.
Overton completed four passes on
the scoring drive and Faison made all four catches on this five-play scoring
drive, including a 3-yard touchdown. The lone play that Faison didn’t make a
grab was a sack made by the explosive Shoatz. Kendell would add the
one-point conversion to make the score 28-7.
The Jaguars’ next drive would end,
thanks to another John Melvin interception, but not before Gilliam’s family
made their presence known. Gilliam hauled in a 25-yard reception on the
first pay of the drive and his family went bananas. They were yelling and
screaming in support. The drive would end four plays later.
But Shoatz, who definitely made
his presence felt, registered another safety, to make the score, 30-7.
Shoatz would pick up 2 safeties and a sack for his game tally and showed
some real burst and explosiveness in the game.
While speaking of explosiveness,
Kendell put a SICK explosive hesitation move on a Jaguar defender but
couldn’t haul in the touchdown. He left the defender’s ankle in another zip
code. That was definitely the best route I’ve seen all year.
Gilliam would add a 10-yard
touchdown later in the game to put U-City up 36-7. Melvin would get on the
board for the Panthers with a 37-yard touchdown reception close to the end
of the game for the final score.
This dominating win put University
City in the inaugural championship game in the PFL. Way to make history,
fellas.
7/26/08
BISHOP MCDEVITT LANCERS 19,
TEAM MODELL’S EAGLES 6
By Terrance McNeil
(Philadelphia Tribune), PFL Editor-In-Chief
Upset city!!!!!!
The Eagles entered this game
undefeated and probably the favorite in this game. They were led by
legendary coach Ron Cohen and had the talent. But the Lancers wanted it more
and it showed in this one.
The most impressive player on the
field, by far, was Drew “Gamebreaker” Siegfried. This kid continues to
impress me. I’ve seen him once before and he was the best player on the
field then. He is just that good. He runs precise routes, has a decent dose
of speed, and possesses incredible hand-eye coordination. Siegfried is that
good and he’s a HUGE reason McDevitt will be in the championship game next
week.
Even the presence of Brian Carter,
a star for George Washington two years ago, couldn’t help his alma mater
stay unbeaten.
Aaron Wilmer, the Eagles’
quarterback, looks extremely comfortable in the defensive backfield. He
notched an interception on the second play of this game. Earlier in the
season, Wilmer notched a three-pick game so he has a ballhawk mentality on
defense.
Wilmer would hit Vernon Dupree for
back-to-back 10-yard pickups on the first drive, but the drive would end
scoreless. After a Wilmer pass break-up would end a McDevitt drive, Wilmer
would get the Eagles on the scoreboard. After hitting Kessan Christopher on
consecutive plays for 17 and 23 yards, Wilmer would hit Chea Sloh for a
5-yard touchdown. The conversion would fail and would make the score 6-0.
Siegfried would do his thing on
the next play, hooking up with quarterback Luke Sawick for a 45-yard
touchdown. It was a length of the field TD in which Siegfried waltzed in the
end zone. That would be The Gamebreaker’s first catch but not his last.
Steve “TipToe” Harris would add the 1-point conversion to put the Lancers
up, 7-6.
The Lancers’ D forced a
three-and-out and the offense would take advantage. Siegfried would start
the drive with a 17-yard catch. Harris would end the drive with an 11-yard
TD reception that fit his specialty: the sideline.
Harris OWNS the sidelines and
always finds a way to get his toes down in bounds. He reminds me of Amani
Toomer, a possession receiver who will do the thing to any and everyone who
steps up.
The conversion failed and the
score was 13-6. The halftime score was a surprise, as Team Modell’s, which
is composed of George Washington’s players, was expected to go to the
championship. Siegfried and his McDevitt teammates had other plans.
The second half began with
Washington with the football. Dupree corralled a 15-yard reception for a
first down. Two plays later, McDevitt dialed up an elaborate blitz, which
sent Siegfried from his cornerback spot. The drive ended the next play.
McDevitt’s next drive ended with a
very questionable pass from Sawick ending directly in the hands of an Eagle
defender. The Lancer defense would force a three-and-out. Siegfried was in
perfect position to make the last play on the Eagles’ drive.
McDevitt would have their next
drive ended with an interception by Omar “Instant Impact” Hunter. He took
this interception from his own end zone and nearly scored on his
interception return; Sawick applied the tag about 5 yards away from the end
zone.
The Eagles’ would produce yet
another three-and out and McDevitt would take over. After a sideline catch
by Harris, Siegfried would come up with one of his signature catches: an
awe-inspiring one. This time Siegfried was in the left corner of the end
zone. Sawick heaved it up to Siegfried. The Gambreaker would prove his name
to be accurate. He leaped along with a defender, came down with the ball
over the defender, and maintained possession while taking a hard spill on
the turf. Amazing grab.
The Eagles’ last drive of the
season ended with an incomplete pass and McDevitt proceeded to celebrate
jubilantly. It was a well-deserved celebration.
McDevitt will go head-to-head with
University City for the PFL Championship.
It’ll be a good match-up. It’ll be
interesting to see if McDevitt’s defense can match the athleticism and
intensity of the Jaguars. It’ll also be interesting to see if the Jags can
find a way to slow down The Gamebreaker and his partner in crime, TipToe.
It’ll be a game you won’t want to
miss!
PSTC Game Summaries
Divisional Playoffs
July 26, 2008
University City Jaguars
36
Overbrook Panthers
13
From the sound of the first
whistle, both teams were noticeably anxious, but ready for the challenge
ahead of them. The Jaguars and the Panthers battled until University City
broke into the lead. Defense was not lackluster, but speed and agility on
the turf made the Jaguars a tough contender. Overbrook continued to play
solid throughout the remainder of the contest. Jaguars’ quarterback Mike
Adens had sharp pass placement and was focused on sealing the win for his
team. Parrish Shoatz forced two safeties and had a sac, while Mike Gilliam
and Amir Washington both tallied two touchdowns for the Jaguars. Rob
McDaniel also ran for one for University City. They waited anxiously to
find out who their final opponent would be, and were visibly jubilant after
their exciting playoff victory, clinching the Sneaker Villa Division.
Bishop McDevitt Lancers 19
Team Modell’s
6
As
the first play commenced in the Modell’s Division Championship, the teams’
tensions were high as they fought for the chance to play University City in
the next round. Out of the gate, crisp passing was pivotal for the Lancers
and Modell’s, as defense for both was on point the entire game. Although
McDevitt played with a smaller roster in comparison to Modell’s, the Lancers
didn’t play as though they were short on the bench. Andrew Siegfried was
explosive in what was one of his most crucial PFL games this season.
Although Siegfried sat out a few plays due to a slight injury, he returned
strong to his positions and secured the win for McDevitt after a touchdown
late in the second half. Next week’s match up will certainly not lack in
athleticism or emotion, and will definitely be one to remember as McDevitt
and University City play for the PFL Championship. The winning team will
receive a $1,000 award for their school’s athletic program.
Congratulations to all
the teams that participated in this years 2008 Inaugural season of the
Passing Football League. Get your teams ready and we'll see you all
next Spring!
7/19/2008
UNIVERSITY CITY JAGUARS 29,
SIMON GRATZ 26
By Terrance McNeil
(Philadelphia Tribune), PFL Editor-In-Chief
This game was
definitely entertaining to say the least. With big play threat Joe “Gimme
Dat” Claiborne suiting up for U-City, I expected to see plenty of fireworks.
Claiborne has been flat-out dominant and looked at some time unstoppable in
the PFL this year. His long strides and glue hands don’t bode very well for
his opponents.
Give Gratz a
lot of credit for slowing down Claiborne in this one. He only had one
touchdown, though that was a 45-yard bomb from Michael “Point Collector”
Adens. Claiborne’s presence was still felt as his deep speed and touchdown
potential forced Gratz’s defense to account for him on every play. But the
defense held him in check.
The game
started off with a bang, as Jamir Anderson caught a 45-yard pass from
ever-improving QB Montrell Stewart. Anderson also reeled in the one point
conversion to make the score 7-0.
The
Bulldogs would end the Jaguars’ first two offensive drives with
interceptions, the first by Stewart. Stewart would follow the second
interception by leading a six-play drive for a score to make the score 13-0.
Daveer Fincher reeled in the 25-yarder for the score. The conversion attempt
failed and left the score 13-0.
Claiborne’s
TD cut the deficit to 13-6, as their conversion attempt failed. Gratz would
turn the ball over on downs, but would notch a safety to increase their lead
to 9 points, 15-6.
The next
score would come on another Gratz safety three possessions later. That
safety would make the score 17-6 and that would be the score at the half.
U-City would
start the second- half fireworks after three plays. Amier “Louie” Washington
would torch past the defense for a 40-yard score to make the 17-12.
Stewart
would lead the Bulldogs on the their next drive to paydirt. He threw a
15-yard touchdown and threw the 1PC to make the give the Bulldogs a lead of
24-12. The Bulldog D would notch another safety, its third of the
game, to give Gratz its biggest lead of the game, 26-12.
This would be
the turning point of the game. University City’s coach Lorrell McCook would
get heated and his players would follow suit, especially “Louie”. There was
a huge fuss over a call and his seemed to get everyone very passionate.
McCook, Gratz coach Eric Zipay, and even commissioner Maine Prince got
involved.
“Louie” is a
very angry young man on the field. It seems as if he hates the world. I
can’t wait to see how that translates when the pads go on.
But with this
newfound intensity, the Jags’ would sandwich two safeties around a 45-yard,
length of the field touchdown to “Louie”, and suddenly there was a ball game
again with the score being 26-22.
Five series
would pass and there was no scoring. The Bulldogs were trying to cling to
this victory and the Jags were trying to do everything they could in order
to advance in the playoffs and prove themselves worth of their #1 seed.
The Jags were
rescued when Tariq “Pop Tart” Gordon made a leaping grab over a defender to
put University City on top, 28-26. The 1PC was converted and the score was
29-26. “Pop Tart” would add the game-clinching interception to end one
entertaining game.
Game Summaries - Week 11, Playoffs
Saturday, July 19
University City Jaguars
29
Simon Gratz
26
Overbrook Panthers
19
William Penn lions
12
Bishop McDevitt Lancers
36
Neumann-Goretti Saints
34
Team Modell's
40
Team O'Vecka
6
7/12/08
NEUMANN-GORETTI 22, OVERBROOK
PANTHERS 8
By Terrance McNeil
(Philadelphia Tribune), PFL Editor-In-Chief
This one was seemingly a game of
two well matched teams. A lot of mistakes from the Panthers and this one,
and the Saints were there to take advantage of them. But take nothing away
from N-G. They put on a heckuva display on how to play football in this
game.
N-G stars of the game were Tom
"Hands" McGarrigle and Anthony "Church Mass" Mastrando. McGarrigle put on a
clinic on how to catch the ball and he did his thing from start to finish.
He had two TDs in this one and he made many other catches.
I was extremely impressed with
'Mass' in this game. His poise and precision were the two most intriguing
qualities about him. He carried himself very well in the huddle and on the
field and looked completely in charge of the offense.
On the other hand, John "Big
Play" Melvin struggled quite a bit in this one. He dropped ball after ball
and just didn't seem to be himself. This isn't the norm for him, though, so
I'm sure next week in the playoffs he'll come out and look to be back on his
A game. I've got a feeling he'll be seeking redemption.
'Brook's quarterback Rasheed
Overton, whose uncle was there in support and was really intense, didn't
have the sharpest of games, either. He struggled with some intermediate
throws and threw some balls behind receivers. He was also victimized by some
drops, though. But he's capable of methodically picking a defense apart and
his reads got better as the game went along.
One great thing about Overton is
that he never lost his cool the entire game. He seemed to be very under
control and show nerves of steel. He'll be aiming to be firing on all
cylinders in the playoffs next week as well.
'Hands' and 'Mass' first hooked
up on N-G's second drive of the first half. It was about a 25-yard
connection. Their scoring drive seemed to be negated when 'Brook picked a
pass off. But the lineman didn't count before the rush and the INT was taken
away. The conversion was for one-point and that gave the Saints a 7-0 lead.
The Panthers' next drive failed,
but Andrew "B.I.G." Davis notched a safety to get the Panther on the board,
7-2. Davis put a massive arm of the shoulder of the poor chap trying to
block him and applied the tag to land the two points for his team. Davis is
starting to learn little intricacies about the game of football. But he also
has to grab one of the simplest theories. He's bigger than everyone else so
it should be extremely difficult for one person to block him man up.
Things started to pick
up in the second half for NG, as they opened the half with a very
methodical, statement-making, 8-play scoring drive. The drive was capped off
by McGarrigle reeling in his second TD of the game. Mastrando looked like he
was comfortable in a pro-style offense on the field. He seemed as if he were
running the West Coast offense. It was a thing of beauty. He only
misfired on one pass the entire drive.
"Sweet" Louis Coles converted the
one-point-conversion try, making the score, 20-2. He also notched a safety
on the next play. Coles would also set up another TD later in the game with
a big reception.
'Brook's lone scoring drive came
after Melvin and the Panther D stopped NG's offense. Overton looked sharp as
he hit Rodney "Hot Rod" Hall twice on the drive. Overton was 4-of-7 on this
drive and looked in control. The two-point conversion (2PC) try failed, but
the Panthers only trailed by 12 points, 20-8.
'Mass' and 'Hands' would get
together again, hooking up for a 19-yard completion, then came Coles' clutch
grab, setting up Brandon Wemberly's touchdown grab. 'Church Mass' was
slinging the pill all over the field. He threw tight out routes. He took
advantage of the middle of the field. He threw crossing routes. He
definitely showed his array of throwing touch and accuracy.
To end his monster game, 'Hands'
ended the game by sacking Overton on the last play.
BISHOP MCDEVITT 32, TEAM O'VECKA
8
This game was pretty even
in the first half. Both teams showed signs of impressive talent and put it
on display for all to see. McDevitt started to pull away in the second half,
as Team O'Vecka started to pull away.
The one thing that was impressive
is that Team O'Vecka remained classy throughout the entire game and the
coaches and players showed ultimate respect for others and themselves.
That's refreshing to see.
Hands down, McDevitt's Andrew
"Game breaker" Siegfried was the most impressive player on the field. He
showed excellent concentration while snagging his first touchdown and would
show some impressive moves on his next score. He also showed skill
converting first downs and leading his team. He would add a 2PC later on in
the game. Siegfried showed out in this game.
In defeat, I was impressed with
Chris Lewis, a sophomore. He is coming off of a fractured knee and gave a
valiant effort on the field. But it wasn't necessarily his on-field
performance that left me impressed.
It was his moxie. He was
encouraging teammates, giving helpful advice, and even when taken out of the
game, he took it in stride and didn't complain at all. He seems to be headed
in the right direction, on and off the field.
Now, onto the game.
Team O'Vecka got on the board
first as Leland Smith started the game at QB. He looked sharp on the first
drive, hitting all three of his passes, including a 27-yard touchdown pass
to reigning PFL player of the week (POW) Devin Sanders.
Sanders, whose mom was a riot on
the sidelines, would also shift to quarterback in this game. His mom also
said he's a solid point guard in basketball, so he's got a considerable
amount of talent. He showed good concentration on his touchdown reception,
hauling it in and taking it in. The conversion attempt failed and O'Vecka
led 6-0.
Siegfried got loose early
on to respond to O'Vecka's scoring drive. After being stopped on their first
possession, McDevitt scored in just three plays, including an eye-popping,
concentration-filled, one-handed, left-handed grab from Siegfried for a
score. He ran a fade and adjusted magnificently to the ball. The other catch
on the drive came as Siegfried lost a defender and outran him to the corner
for a 25-yard pickup. The conversion attempt failed and left the score at
6-6.
O'Vecka would strike next- on the
defensive side of the ball. Nick Johnson would notch a safety, putting his
team up, 8-6. Unfortunately, that would end the scoring for O'Vecka for the
day.
McDevitt would notch a safety
immediately after the touchdown to even the game at 8-8.
The Game breaker would get busy
on his next drive as well, stringing together two catches and another
touchdown. One catch came on a juke-filled run after the catch play, and his
touchdown was pitch and catch with quarterback Steve Harris to end the first
half. McDevitt would convert the 2PC and would go into the half leading,
16-8.
Harris showed a decent skill set
in this one. He was cool when dropping back, and even carried out some play
action motions in the game even though running isn't allowed in the PFL.
The play of the game came on the
opening play of the second half. Anthony "Shift Gears" Bolden out it on
McDevitt defenders. He caught a screen pass, made about 6 juke moves,
including at least three in the one-on-one open field variety, and sprinted
to the house. But it was ruled that he was touched so the TD was erased. But
Bolden definitely flat-out embarrassed some defenders.
McDevitt would take over and put
the game away. Siegfried was in the middle of this one again, making a
leaping 21-yard reception for a first down, leading to Harris' touchdown to
Matt Conroy. Conroy showed some playmaking ability in this one, notching an
interception return for a touchdown on the following O'Vecka drive. The Game
breaker would convert the 2PC and the score was 24-8.
Conroy's aforementioned
interception return sealed the deal and put the exclamation point on a solid
game for McDevitt.
Both coaches, McDevitt's Bill
Holden and O'Vecka's Marc Wilson are class acts. They are good leaders for
kids to be listening to and following and offer positive influences on their
student-athletes.
Game Summaries - Week 10
Saturday, June 12
William Penn
22
Simon
Gratz
18
The
Simon Gratz Bulldogs came out strong in the first half against the William
Penn Lions. Malik Joe and Jamir Anderson, both Bulldogs, scored three
unanswered safeties. Simon Gratz quarterback Montrell Stewart, who showed
marked improvement and looked good in this game, threw a touchdown to Malik
Joe before the end of the half against a scoreless William Penn, and in the
second half Lawrenzo Evans scored touchdown number two for the Bulldogs.
However, William Penn came back with strong passes and catches, and a
determined defense. Nathan Brown, who had a huge game in his last outing,
scored two out of three touchdowns from quarterback Emmanuel Pittman, who
returned to action this week. The Lions also tallied two safeties in the
second half, which allowed them to turn the game around and head home with
the win. Both of these teams will be ready when the PFL playoffs begin next
weekend.
University City 34
Bishop McDevitt 19
The
University City Jaguars and the Bishop McDevitt Lancers played a close game
throughout most of the competition. McDevitt quarterback Steve Harris threw
touchdown passes to Matt Conroy and Andrew Siegfried. Conroy also had an
interception. University City’s quarterback Michael Adens delivered a lot
of airmail, as he threw touchdowns to Robert McDaniel, Michael Gilliam and
Joseph Claiborne. That led the way to the victory.
Team
Modell’s 30
Philly Hilltoppers 0
Team
Modell’s stayed strong and consistent the entire game in their defeat over
the Philly Hilltoppers. In the first half, Chea Sloh, Lorenzo Adams, and
Elliot Leonard all navigated though the Hilltoppers’ defense for
touchdowns. This caps an undefeated season for Team Modell's and they will
look to use their momentum going into the playoffs next week. Sloh (1) and
Aaron Wilmer (3) also had interceptions. After all of that excitement, Team
Modell’s was able to close the first half at 18-0. The second half proved
to be just as intense. Both Thomas Marano and Waverly Harris added
touchdowns to secure the victory.
6/28/08-
TEAM MODELL'S EAGLES 18, SIMON GRATZ BULLDOGS 6
By Terrance McNeil
(Philadelphia Tribune), PFL Editor-In-Chief
This wasn't
the prettiest of games. It wasn't a defensive struggle, nor was it to be
confused with an offensive explosion.
I've seen the
Eagles play before and they seemed a bit out of sync. This is also my second
look at the Bulldogs and their defense did a solid job of grounding
the Eagles' offense.
Modell's
quarterback Aaron Warner tossed two TDs in this one and had another on wiped
away due to penalty. He looked very crisp and showed the same leadership and
swag as he's shown before.
Linebacker/defensive end Waverly "Tidal Wave" Harris notched another sack
and safety, giving him four sacks in the last two games. Lorenzo 'Zo' Adams
impressed again, grabbing a crucial catch for a first down and making a
critical defensive play.
This duo
should be dubbed 'The Usual Suspects' because if a Team Modell's game is
going on, they'll usually be around the ball making a play.
Gratz's D,
led by Faruq Butler and Devin Briscoe, held stiff in holding the Eagles to
14 points. Their young QB, Montrell Stewart, still has a ways to go, but he
showed some pretty decent tools to become a factor before his scholastic
career is over.
It seems like
a confidence more than anything for Stewart. On one drive alone, he showed
glimpses of his potential.
He rolled out
and made a perfect read and release to beat the blitz. He completed four out
of his five passes on that drive, including a 5-yard pitch and catch TD.
Stewart also threw a perfect pass to his receiver running a flag route for
about 20 yards and a first down. So, he has the tools. He just needs
seasoning as he's just a freshman.
But once he
gets that seasoning, and more confidence, consistency, and that take-over
mentality, he could be one of the best quarterbacks in the PFL. He just
needs a bit more focus.
One player
who impressed me in this game was Omar "Instant Impact" Hunter. On his first
play in the PFL, he jumped a route and picked off a pass. He showed nifty
return ability as well, making a couple nice moves on the return.
But the
nicest return of the day belonged to James "Jimmy" Fowler. He showed nice
hands and awareness on a ball that was floating and picked it off. So, off
he goes. He's goes about 5-10 and 200 pounds and people were surprised
that because he was white that he had moves.
Well, he
definitely had moves on this INT return. He made about three people
fall on juke moves and cutbacks and got his teammates amped on the
sidelines. He also was on the receiving end of a touchdown and a one-point
conversion to end the game.
Gratz coach
Eric Zipay was wearing a shirt that read "Together Everyone Achieves More."
That's a great acronym for team as it rings true. His team, as long as they
carry that mindset will go far.
6/28/08
OVERBROOK PANTHERS 26, WILLIAM
PENN LIONS 18
By Terrance McNeil
(Philadelphia Tribune), PFL Editor-In-Chief
Yes, the
Lions lost the game. They came up just short in the 7-on-7 game in the PFL.
But they only had SIX players! Their six players (Nathan "PrimeTime" Brown,
Kente Wiggins, Daniel "Captain Cool" Philpot, Khalil Henderson, Naeem
Joyner, and William Jordan) left EVERYTHING on the field. They showed that
one that you can't teach, train, or terminate: they showed heart and LOTS of
it.
On a play
that would show just how hard they would be going this game, Philpot dumped
a short screen pass to Brown. Brown then made a sick hesitation move, and
outran the defender to the corner. He stretched and came up just short of
the cone. But they showed maximum effort on that play.
The Panthers
showed maximum talent on the next play. John "Big Play" Melvin scorched the
Penn D and put a touchdown on the board on the first play from scrimmage.
Rasheed Overton threw the bomb and Melvin caught it in stride.
Melvin also
made his presence felt on defense the very next play, as he came flying over
from his safety spot to bat down a pass. That William Penn offensive drive
ended in an interception.
PrimeTime
would then let the Panthers know that he and his squad were going to fight
until the end. He batted down two passes on that drive and then gave Overton
some advice: "Don't throw to my side!!!!!," he yelled.
Penn's next
offensive series ended after they couldn't score a touchdown and gave the
ball up on turnover on downs. But not before Brown made an excellent
downfield block on a reception and caught a pass for a first down.
Brown and his
five teammates immediately had to turn around and play defense, as they
played both offense and defense the entire game. Brown started by applying a
tag to a receiver, limiting him to a 1-yard pickup. He then made another
pass defense, giving him three pass break-ups (PBUs) in the game.
Then, Overton
had a receiver WIIIIIIIIIDE open, as there was a lapse and coverage and he
couldve stopped to tie his cleats and still have been open. But the
receiver dropped the ball. Overton, who was also relatively poised, hauled
another pass up, this time it was completed, as another lapse in coverage
led to a receiver going 44 yards for the score. Melvin was there to convert
the 2PC and 'Brook was up two scores.
But right
before the half was over, Captain Cool and PrimeTime dialed up from long
distance. Philpot his Brown for a 45-yard touchdown on the last play of the
half to get the Lions on the board. Brown flew by two defenders to make the
grab.
'Brook, led
by coach Darryl Taylor, came out after the intermission and put up another 6
points on the board, as Overton hit Rodney "Hot Rod" Hall for a
10-yard score to make the score 20-6. The big play on this drive came from
(surprise, surprise) Melvin. He hauled in a 30 yard bomb to set up the
touchdown. He went up, with two defenders draping him, and came down with
the rock.
Penn came
back on the next drive, and came up with a much needed score. Wiggins opened
the drive by straight being a grown man and snatching the ball away from a
so-called defender. He showed great hands and concentration and all-out will
on the play.
After two
incomplete passes, Big Naeem came up huge for Penn. He read the zone and
showed soft hands, making the grab for the first down. Henderson, who
dropped a wide open seam pass that would have been a touchdown, redeemed
himself by making two consecutive grabs, the first being a first down, and
the second one being a touchdown. The 2PC failed, but the Lions were back in
the game and trailed 20-12.
The Panthers
made a QB change and brought in freshman-to-be John "Young Buck" Cardwell.
Cardwell's first pass was batted down by Jordan. His second pass ended up in
the hands of a Penn defender as it was picked off.
Penn couldn't
convert on the drive and gave the ball back to 'Brook. Brown got his hands
on two consecutive passes, dropping two interceptions. He ended the day with
five PBUs on the day. But young Cardwell made them pay by completing a
length of the field heave to Terrance Prince for a touchdown. The 2PC
failed, making the score 26-12.
Cardwell will
be a player before his scholastic career is over. He already has decent
height and an aptitude for football. Undoubtedly, he was nervous and made
some bad throws, and he was just 1-of -5 on the day. But the kid's got a
rocket launcher for an arm. And, he doesn't even step into his throws yet!
He throws off of his back foot all the time. Once he gets trained, if he's
serious, he could be a true D-I talent.
Brown added a
35-yard touchdown, his second of the game, to close out the scoring.
Even in
defeat, and without one of their best players (Emmanuel Pittman), the Lions
still competed. Hard. They gave the Panthers all they could handle and
backed down from no challenge. They have unity and a passion for the game.
They're a scrappy and courageous team with talent. And Brown definitely was
shining in this one.
Game Summaries - Week 9
Saturday, June 28
McDevitt 13
Team
O’Vecka 6
The Bishop McDevitt Lancers and Team O’Vecka both
played very intense games this week. McDevitt made great catches through
defensive traffic, which displayed the athletes’ great flexibility. O’Vecka
showed strong defensive skills throughout the whole game. O’Vecka’s Devin
Sanders got the job done on both sides of the ball, with an interception and
a touchdown. Quarterback Leland Smith was solid again today in his passes
and movement. Despite O’Vecka’s spirited efforts, McDevitt came out
victorious.
Neumann-Goretti 31
Simon
Gratz 7
The Neumann-Goretti Saints and Simon Gratz
Bulldogs were quiet through the first plays of the game, but it didn’t take
long for Neumann-Goretti to score. A one-handed catch, strong defensive
coverage, great passing and forced interceptions allowed for the Saints to
hit cruise control for the rest of the game. The Bulldogs executed plays
well and came out with one touchdown, but the Saints marched home with the
win.
University City 15
Overbrook 8
The University City Jaguars and the Overbrook
Panthers had a battle until the end this Saturday. Both teams demonstrated
agility on offense and discipline on defense. After a long pass early in
the first half, the ball was juggled by Overbrook, which led to an
interception by University City. Mike Adens and Mike Gilliam, both Jaguars
players, had great games. Gilliam scored a touchdown, and John Melvin was
impressive, tallying three picks for the Panthers. Although Overbrook
scored a touchdown and successfully executed a two point conversion, they
fell short to University City, and the Jaguars advanced in the win column
once again.
Game Summaries – Week 8
June 21,
2008
University City Jaguars 27
William Penn Lions 13
The contest
between the Jaguars and the Lions proved to be an energetic and entertaining
game. A few false starts hindered University City’s offense, but they
battled back from the penalties. Amir Washington and Joe Claiborne of the
Jaguars both caught beautiful passes for touchdowns. Quarterbacks Mike
Adens and Dan Philpot had tremendous games, completing many of their
passes. For the Lions, both Nathaniel Brown and Emmanuel Pittman scored
touchdowns. Pittman also notched an interception. Kenny White scored two
extra points and Kente Wiggins tallied a safety. Both teams showed great
athleticism throughout the match up, but the Jaguars prevailed.
Neumann-Goretti Saints 27
Bishop McDevitt Lancers 0
The Saints
and the Lancers played a good game, but Neumann Goretti capitalized on
interceptions and turnovers on downs. Lamont Wilson had an outstanding
game, tallying three picks for the Saints. The second half of the game was
more defense-oriented, which benefited the Saints. Both teams showed great
passing skills, but the Saints took advantage of their opportunities.
University City Jaguars 22
Philly Hilltoppers 2
The
University City Jaguars earned several safeties throughout the game, and the
Hilltoppers showed great passing skills with excellent grabs exploiting the
middle of the Hilltoppers’ defense. Mike Adens was solid in his
performance, even though it was his second contest of the day. Robert
McDaniel showed his versatility by grabbing four balls and notching a
safety. U-City’s Joe Claiborne had yet another successful game, as well.
Julius Faison scored a safety for the Hilltoppers, but it wasn’t nearly
enough. The Jaguars’ offensive game led them to another victory.
Game Summaries – Week 5
May 31, 2008
#9 Simon Gratz played a solid defensive game to win
over #8 Neumann-Goretti. Both teams’ quarterbacks showed good field
movement and strong passing skills. The Saints had clutch receptions, but
couldn’t capitalize. With an 8-0 win, the Bulldogs improve their record to
2-3.
#6 Bishop McDevitt added another win to their season,
defeating #5 Philly Hilltoppers. Andrew Siegfried tallied two touchdowns
for the Lancers in the first half. The Hilltoppers improved their passing
and made huge catches throughout the game. However, that wasn’t enough. The
final was 34-13, giving the Lancers a 2-3 record.
#1 Modell’s continues to stay undefeated as they won
40-7 over #11 O’Vecka. Modell’s quarterback threw strong passes throughout
the contest. O’Vecka also showed great offensive skills, but they couldn’t
take advantage of the opportunities. Team Modell’s now stands at 5-0 in the
PFL.
The
University City Jaguars, with their 4-1 record, are leading the Sneaker
Villa Division while the undefeated (5-0) Team Modell’s are now leading the
Modell’s Division, along with leading the overall PFL rankings. Rankings
are based on records, points for, and points against. End of the season
awards for PFL registered participants are based on leading categories in
points scored, touchdown passes, interceptions, most valuable player, top
defensive/offensive player, and player with highest grade point average.
Game Summaries – Week 4
May 24, 2008
#8 Overbrook and #1Modell’s had a strong defensive
game. There was solid passing for both teams, but Team Modell’s excelled on
their chances. Aaron Wilmer completed his passes and was sharp in his
release. Chea Sloh and Kessan Christopher both caught passes from Wilmer.
Overbrook’s offensive scheme was solid, but it wasn’t enough to beat
Modell’s. They are still undefeated, improving to 4-0 on the season by
winning 14 – 6 over the Overbrook Panthers.
#11 Team O’Vecka and #5 William Penn Lions fought a
hard battle on the field, but the Lions prevailed to a 31-6 win. O’Vecka
had opportunities but were halted by the Lions’ defense. Leland Smith’s
pass to Jeraal Bone connected for O’Vecka. The physical level of play was
high throughout the contest. William Penn’s Nate Brown sat out for about
three plays after he took a hit to the face, but returned shortly after.
O’Vecka opted for long passes; however, the plays were not completed in
time. With the win, the Lions’ record improved to 1-2.
#3 University City Jaguars capitalized on their
offensive skills in their win defeated the #2 Bucks County Rams 21 – 6 in
the most dominating offense in the PFL versus the previously un-challenged
defense. The Rams have about half a dozen Division I-A caliber players
couldn’t help contain the Jaguars week 3 player of the week, Michael Adens
as he did a great imitation of a perfect run-and-shoot offense. Adens
completed many passes, improving throughout the game. On the receiving end,
Joe Clayborne caught most of what Adens threw his way. Mike Gilliam tallied
an extra point for University City. The highlight for the Rams was Shane
Kimmel’s interceptions that was returned for a touchdown and Ryan Phares
added the extra point. The Jaguars added another win to their season and
are now 3-1 moving to the third spot in the PFL.
The second game
for both the Bucks County Rams and the William Penn Lions proved to be a low
scoring, defense oriented match up. Nick Cattolico was a strong presence on
the field for Bucks County even after the 6’6” – 300lb. lineman was tossed
to the ground by “The Giant” Soquan Scarborough at 6’7” – 330lb. in an
inadvertent play resulted in another Penn first down. The Lions running game
was impressive, adding a touchdown after a long run. They broke .500 with
the win, enhancing their record to 2-2.
Both the #6 Neumann-Goretti Saints and the #10 UTEAP
Seminoles demonstrated great passing opportunities throughout the game.
The Seminoles bright spot was Lamont Paramore a 6’1” – 200 lb. safety/wider
receiver who ran for a touchdown on a turnover. The Saints’ Mark Stinson
illustrated his skills by completing passes to Frank Coleman, Louis Coles
and Joe Lind. Lind added an extra point for the Saints. Kadeem Curtis was
an excellent vocal leader on the defensive end. With the win,
Neumann-Goretti advanced their record to 2-2 and remained ranked #6 in the
PFL and #3 in their division.
In today’s game, #4 Philly Hilltoppers and #9 Simon
Gratz Bulldogs were aggressive in their defensive strategies. The
Hilltoppers showed enthusiasm throughout the contest, staying vocal with
each other, proving that teamwork is essential. They remain undefeated in
the season with their record at 3-0 by defeating the Bulldogs 13 – 4.
The University City Jaguars, with their 3-1 record, are
leading the Sneaker Villa Division while the undefeated (4-0) Team Modell’s
are now leading the Modell’s Division. Rankings are based on records,
points for, and points against. End of the season awards for PFL registered
participants are based on leading categories in points scored, touchdown
passes, interceptions, most valuable player, top defensive/offensive player,
and player with highest grade point average.
Philadelphia Sports Training Center is the host of the
7-on-7 Passing Football League and their motto for the facility is “Where
AcademicsplusAthleticsequal Success!” This
statement is created to develop academic integrity for student-athletes that
play football in the PFL. The PFL is “Spring Football is the Second Season”
as high school teams get ready for the fast approaching pre-season starting
August 11th. This also is a fundraiser for participating
schools, because the grand prize is $1000 to the athletic department of the
winning school.
Stop by the Belmont Plateau football fields at
Fairmount Park every Saturday through August 9 at 9 a.m. to cheer on all the
teams of the PFL!
The
PFL encourages all media, college coaches, parents, sponsors, and fans of
high school football to come out and support the student-athletes by
watching their games and cheering on your favorite team. The players have
satisfied their academic requirement of having at least a minimum 2.0 grade
point average as well as continuing to workout and practice with their
participating school. Along with the unique format of the PFL, after the
final game of the day a guest speaker is invited during the chalk talk
session to motivate & inspire the players
with words of encouragement on
your support of the impact of athletics, the importance of academics, and
the success the combination brings to improve their quality of life. For
more details on the PFL, please review our website and request an interview,
speaking engagement, or town hall meeting with the commissioner of the
league to get a better understanding of the vision of the Passing Football
League.
We look forward to seeing you all next week and every
Saturday through August 9th at Fairmount Park – Belmont Plateau
Fields between 9am – 11am. For MapQuest directions enter the intersections
Montgomery Drive & Belmont Mansion Drive in Philadelphia, PA. For general
directions, take exit 341 off I-76 and proceed to follow the signs along the
road approximately 40 yards to the right.
We welcome any donations and sponsors of the league for
end of the season awards and the league banquet to be held at the Marriott
Hotel or another location as determined. To make general donations and
support the league, please use the link below and know that your support is
greatly appreciated as we raise the academic integrity of our participating
student-athletes and expand the Passing Football League.
2008 7-on-7 Passing
Football League, PFL and the PFL shield design are registered trademarks of
Philadelphia Sports Training Center.. The sponsors, team names, logos
and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. All
official PFL merchandise will resemble the PFL Shield placed visibly on
select items.