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Rio 12U football finishes historic season, heads to nationals
The RR Spartans U12 Pop Warner team is heading to nationals
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RIO RANCHO — The Rio Rancho Pop Warner U12 Spartans football team just returned from the Southwest Championship Nov. 18 with the regional trophy held high.
The Spartans defeated the Weld County Bears from Greeley, Colorado, 38-6 and now look ahead to the national tournament on Dec. 7-12.
The Rio Rancho Spartans had an outstanding season, finishing with a remarkable 10-1 record.
“Their dedication and hard work, guided by the expertise of Coach Nate Davis, Coach Byron Cooper, and Coach Josiah Hunter, led them to clinch the State Championship title,” says the team’s GoFundMe page.
The U12 team’s journey continued after that, with the squad triumphing in the first round of the Southwest quarterfinals of regionals.
“This is the first time a Rio Rancho, New Mexico, team has made it this far in four years, and the Spartans are determined to showcase their talent and bring home more victories,” says the team page.
“The Pop Warner Super Bowl is the premier national championship event for youth football. It represents the only true national championship format in the country,” reads the Pop Warner website.
Pop Warner teams typically play seven to nine games in a regular season, running through October. After a league champion is named, teams advance to the regional level.
Teams that win their regional championships will advance to the Pop Warner Super Bowl for the opportunity to be crowned national champion in their division of play.
According to the Pop Warner website, “More than 70 games take place throughout the seven-day event in December. Championship games will take place on the turf of Camping World Stadium, where some of the greats from college and professional football have played.”
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The team is currently fundraising to make the trip to Orlando, Florida, for the Pop Warner Superbowl taking place Dec. 7-12. They have a goal of $50,000.
“Your support can help make their journey possible,” said the Spartan page.
Visit FloSports for information on livestreaming.
