Antilles School’s B team celebrated back-to-back flag football wins this week against Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School (31-12) and Gifft Hill School (28-14), heading into Saturday’s Bull and Bread Bowl, where they will contend for the league championship.
On Tuesday afternoon at Fishman Family Field at Antilles School on St. Thomas, BCB’s coed squad fought hard but ultimately conceded the match 38-12 to Antilles B. The stands were packed with parents who shouted and cheered with every play.
BCB’s 8th-grade linewoman, Janica Rogers, said, “It’s tough to lose games after practicing so hard, but my favorite part of the experience is getting to compete and enjoy the game with my friends.”
Her teammate Jahniya Joseph added, “I’ve always wanted to play flag football, so this moment means everything to me.” Despite the tough loss, Joseph beamed with pride over BCB’s female presence on the field. When asked if she felt intimidated playing against boys, she laughed and responded, “Never!”
Antilles B seized a postgame opportunity to encourage their teammates and fellow students competing in Saturday’s bowl game. Eighth grader Braydon Richardson reminded the players, “Big games come around, and there are some big moments, but just have fun. Enjoy what you do.”
Tre Richards chimed in with his own words of wisdom, “Never back down! Never give up! And don’t be afraid of the score!”
On Wednesday, Antilles B traveled to St. John, where they secured their second victory of the week, winning 28-14 against Gifft Hill School. Standout performances came from Tucker Edwards and sibling duo Max and Cameron Martinez. Edwards scored two touchdowns, and the Martinez brothers teamed up for another.
The energetic squad anticipates facing off with Antilles A at the Bull and Bread Bowl to determine who will be crowned middle school flag football champions.
Quarterback Max Martinez expressed confidence in his team: “We’re looking forward to the final, and we’re ready to try and win!”
The young athletes are excited to see the stands filled with supporters at the Bull and Bread Bowl on Saturday at Lionel Roberts Stadium from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
