Small city, big champs! Racine's 12U dominate Midwest Gridiron Classic at Northern Illinois University
Unstoppable Force: Racine Eagles 12U team triumphs with a 3-0 record in DeKalb, IL
The Racine Eagles 12U football team made their mark at the Midwest Gridiron Classic, hosted at Northern Illinois University's Outdoor Sports and Recreation facility in DeKalb, Illinois. Finishing with an undefeated 3-0 record, the Eagles demonstrated not only skill and strategy but also unity and heart, making an impact on the field and leaving their competition in awe.
A powerful start with unmatched performanceThe Eagles began the tournament with a solid win against the Chicago Bengals , coming out on top with a score of 14-0. The team's defense held strong, setting the tone for the weekend. In Game 2, the Eagles soared to a decisive 28-0 victory over the Outlaws, showcasing their offensive strength and team synergy. They closed out the tournament against the Tri City Chargers with a confident 19-0 win, thanks to sharp execution and contributions from every player.
Reflecting on the tournament, Coach Dante Hampton praised the team, saying, "Coaching these boys has been amazing. Amar'e Ozier's dedication over the years and his growth as a player is truly inspiring. Sam Rendtorff brought skill and determination, and Rashaud Ashley's football IQ and versatility on both offense and defense were game-changers." The combination of talent and teamwork allowed the Eagles to remain focused, unrelenting, and unified in their path to victory.
Standout Players and Key MomentsAmar'e Ozier: Having joined the Eagles at the young age of six, Ozier's commitment to improving every season has shaped him into an outstanding player and an even better teammate. As a dynamic runner and positive force for his peers, Ozier's influence on and off the field was crucial to the Eagles' tournament success. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire the younger players on the team.
In an interview, Ozier shared his thoughts on transitioning roles. While primarily a running back, Ozier was excited to step into the wide receiver position and work on his technique. "Working as a receiver has been a great way to focus on footwork and cuts, which are essential for both running and receiving," he explained. The new position allowed him to hone his skills further and contribute even more to the team's dynamic plays.
Sam Rendtorff: A newcomer from the State Line Comets in Illinois, Rendtorff brought a fresh perspective and drive to the Eagles . He expressed his gratitude for the coaches, saying, "I'm very grateful for my coaches Anton, Dante, and Gavin! They're like no other, and being on this team feels like home." Rendtorff's adaptability and eagerness to learn quickly won over his teammates, and he left his mark by earning MVP honors. "This team showed me the ropes and supported me in learning what it means to be an Eagle," he said. Rendtorff's energy and commitment helped the Eagles push past any challenges they faced in the tournament.
Rashaud Ashley: Recently joining from RYS St. Catherine's Angels, Ashley was a powerhouse on both offense and defense. Known for his high football IQ, Ashley seamlessly moved between positions and demonstrated his versatility throughout the tournament. One memorable play involved a strip tackle on defense, immediately followed by a touchdown on the next offensive drive. "My mindset going into the tournament was to dominate," Ashley said. His ability to read the field and his fearless attitude made him an invaluable asset in each game, with opposing teams constantly needing to account for him.
Coaches Dante Hampton and Anton Graham: The Strategic DuoThe Eagles' success can also be attributed to the expert collaboration between Coaches Dante Hampton and Anton Graham. With Anton handling play-calling responsibilities, Hampton praised his mentor's football mind, saying, "Anton's adjustments during games are game-changing. We trust each other's decision-making, and that trust brings out the best in our coaching team." Hampton, who has learned from Graham since he was 15, emphasized the value of their partnership. "Whatever I don't see, he does, and vice versa. It's all about having each other.
Local newsThe Racine County Eye is your source for local news that serves our diverse communities. Subscribe today to stay up-to-date with local news.
