The Nation’s Youth League football kicked off at the Pinnacle Athletic Complex Saturday afternoon. The Decorum Elite faced off against the Park Hill Pirates in the highly anticipated opener in the 11-and-under bracket.

Clouds did give some cover from the Mile High sun and 90-degree temperatures, but Decorum couldn’t answer the Pirates’ heat with the 21-0 opening day win for Park Hill. The Pirates opened the new season after a recent national game in Dallas, Texas.

“Today is more than just the start of a football season, it’s the beginning of something powerful,” Pirates Coach Dyrell Hallcy said after the game. “A season where hard work meets purpose, where brotherhood is forged in sweat and determination, and where every snap of the ball is a chance to show the heart of a true Pirate

Coach Cinque Brown and the Pirates were led by wide receiver Ricky Ozias (#5), who scored two first-half touchdowns in the win. The line was anchored by Margarito Sanchez (#98), who also had a field goal attempt in the second half for Park Hill.

Head Coach DeNario Marlett and the Decorum Elite were still in the game in the second half with Hunter Parker at quarterback. Cornerback JJ Greer toughed it out and stayed in the game, and helped hold the Pirates to one score in the second half.  

“Today was a great day for football,” said President Dane Washington, Sr. “We have been working with the majority of these young men since February through our off season, training program, and then added some new additions to the team in May. It was good to see these student athletes finally take the field and showcase all of the hard work they endured.”

By Lenn Durant

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