MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The Combat Logistics Regiment 17 Desk Jockeys and the Assault Amphibious School Battalion Gators battled for the championship trophy during the 2012 Flag Football Championship League on Camp Pendleton, May 17.
“A total of 24 teams participated in this tournament,” said Michael A. Curtis, sports coordinator with Marine Corps Community Services Athletics. “Tonight, only one will be named the champion.”
Each team put their training, skills and teamwork to the test to see which team is better. “Our main strategy for this tournament was speed,” said Jay M. Johnson, coach for the Desk Jockeys. “We spent a lot of time getting a team and running routes.”
The Gators came to the tournament with a heavily considered strategy.
“Our team focused on planning,” said Amos Pilson, a guard with the Gators. “We have various plays to execute and put a lot of effort and practice into those plays.”
Each player sprinted, leaped and dove to catch either the ball or their opponent in the hour-long game.
“It’s awesome to see their competitive spirit and dedication to their teams,” said Curtis. “It’s an honor to be able to give back to the Marines as well as provide them an outlet from their everyday work.”
As the game ended, the name of the winner was announced along with the presentation of trophies and medals.
“It was a hard fought game but at the end of the day the best team won,” said Kindayl L. Lake, coach for the Gators. “I want to congratulate the Desk Jockey for their accomplishment.”
The Desk Jockeys overcame their opponents, the Gators, with a score of 26 to 8.
“The Gators were the toughest team we have gone up against in this tournament,” said Johnson, winner of Coach of the Year. “I have to say the turning point came down to one great catch.”
Even with their defeat, the Gators hold their heads high as they look forward to next year.
“This is an awesome program to be a part of and it’s great to have fun with my fellow Marines,” Pilson said. “It’s unfortunate that we lost but there is no reason why we shouldn’t come back next year and win the whole thing.”