The IYAA Gladiators post two shutouts against Palmer
K-2nd grade coaches Michael Davis and Aaron Itson congratulate their team on getting back into the win column after their 18-0 win over Palmer. (Barry Byers)
C-Team (K-2nd):
After a tough overtime loss last week to Ferris, the IYAA C-team Gladiators (2-1) were led by quarterback Laveranues Green who scored on Italy’s first offensive play of the game. Green ran in two more touchdowns by games end to help Italy build an 18-0 advantage over the Palmer Bulldogs.
Cornerbacks Rodney Williams and John Hall, Jr., along with linebackers Green and Julius Williams, assisted in keeping Palmer off the scoreboard as the IYAA C-team posted its second shutout of the season, 18-0. Palmer threatened late in the fourth but Curtis Benson, Canaan Richters, Byron Davis, Isaac Gray, Taylor Sparks, Christian Martinez, Hayden Ellis, Damorian Sargent, Bryce Ballard, Damien Wooldridge, Willie Talton and Lane Shifflett preserved the C-team’s shutout win.
B-Team (3rd & 4th):
Ricky Pendleton scored Italy’s lone touchdown in a 19-6 loss to the Palmer Bulldogs Saturday despite a strong showing by the IYAA B-team Gladiators (0-3). Wins are great but the bottom line is making sure the kids are improving on every snap as they prepare for their football futures. The team’s overall improvement was more noticeable than the the final score so keep up the good work B-team!
Defensive ends Gage Wafer and Bryce DeBorde, along with linebacker Preston Rasco, led the defensive charge for Italy with assistance from Pendleton, Brennon Sigler, Ty Beets, Parker Richters, Eric Martinez, Jayden Saxon and C.C. Jones. Rocklin Ginnett is still sidelined with a broken arm but was there to help keep his team hydrated.
A-Team (5th & 6th):
Quarterback Tylan Wallace guided the IYAA A-team Gladiators to their third straight win while hard hits and two fumble recoveries by Isaac Salcido helped Italy’s defense post its third straight shutout, 32-0 over Palmer. Highlight plays for Italy were a pair of long touchdown runs by Salcido, a pass from Wallace to Kendrick Norwood who made an athletic grab high in the air to come down with the catch and a first career touchdown run by Clay Riddle to seal the victory. Italy’s IYAA A-team now has a 3-0 record and has emerged as a front runner in their quest for NESA Superbowl.
Congratulations to the IYAA B-team cheerleaders who were awarded the squad with the most spirit in week four of the season. In a showing of school spirit and unity, the Italy High School cheerleaders were on hand to guide our young squads throughout the day.
Special thanks to all our volunteers, the cheerleaders and players. Also, we appreciate the continued efforts of the chain gang captain, Cody Boyd, and clock manager, John Hall, Sr.
The IYAA will welcome Hubbard on Saturday, October 8 for three games with the the C-team starting at 9:00 a.m., the B-team starting at 10:00 a.m. and the A-team starting at 11:30 a.m.