http://thecountypress.our-hometown.com/news/2011-06-29/Sports/Working_at_it_with_all_their_hearts.html
Working at it with all their hearts
Christian football league getting kids involved
The Michigan Warriors of the Christian Football League, shown here during a pre-game prayer, begin official 2011 practices on Aug. 1 and start the season on Aug. 20. Photo provided DAVISON undefined Consisting mainly of homeschooled students and Christian boys attending public schools or small Christian schools, the Michigan Warriors of the Christian Football League have been giving Genesee and Lapeer County’s otherwise forgotten talent a chance to compete on the football field since 2008. This creates an opportunity for the areas next generation that wouldn’t otherwise exist, while building the hearts, minds and bodies of everyone willing to put in all the hard work it takes to turn a dream into reality.
“Though we are a little low on the numbers (about 17) we’re still being productive and the kids are working hard. The biggest obstacle to overcome in this league is not being associated with a school. Which means lack of a weight room, players may not live very close or in the same area as others to share rides, etc. so it can be a challenge to get everyone to camps or workouts at the same time,” said Warriors head coach Mark Brimmer. “Another challenge is that we have to constantly work on keeping people informed about the league so we can add players every year, unlike a school where the kids are already there and in the system.”
Part of what keeps this league in motion is the practice space donated by the Knights of Columbus at rental hall #4090 at 8428 Davison Rd. Not only does this help the team maintain its vision of building character through athletics during the regular season, but it also allows them to host several clinics over the course of the summer break, including team camps on July 12 and 19 from 6-8 p.m. for all skill players and lineman and speed training for the entire team is on July 18, 21 and 22. The Warriors also held events on June 11, 14 and 21, Pride Week is July 25-29 and Warriors Day follows on July 30.
“Since the beginning of the CFL-MI and the Warrior team, the Knights of Columbus organization has been very generous in allowing the Warriors to use their property for practicing. The Knights wants to see young men focusing their energy in a positive Christian way,” Brimmer said. “As a new coach, our Spring session was very important and we truly got alot accomplished. We’re in the process of adding new players, and coaches through out the summer along with camps, passing league, etc. For those interested in checking out the Warriors and becoming a part of our team, we have upcoming camps. Those (ages 14-18) interested can bring cleats and participate for the day.”
In 2009 Michigan made it all the way to the CFL championship game, losing to the Detroit Westside Warriors, 28- 0. This success came in part because of the formation of a junior varsity unit as well as eight players who transfered to the team after the Heritage Christian Academy Eagles of North Branch folded on the heels of a 4-5 season in 2008.
“Our expectation for this year is to compete for the state championship again. We have to bounce back from a disappointing season last year and re-focus on working like champions, practicing like champions, and playing champions. And there is no doubt we have the talent to do it. We expect to have a fun and successful season,” said Brimmer. “The league is also focused on establishing middle school aged teams, and hopefully teaming up with upward bound for youth flag football. This is a great opportunity for any kid who otherwise may not have the chance to play football. So we encourage anyone interested, please check us out.”
Area players on the Michigan Warriors current roster include Lapeer’s Mark DeLong, Matt DeLong, Mark Gabryel, Luke Gabryel and Brayden LaPenas, Imlay City’s Michael McKee, Columbiaville’s Sawyer VanAllen, Swartz Creek’s Tyler Budd and Flint’s Andrew Denman and Dominik Neal. Details: www.cfl-mi.com.
