This time of the year is reserved for the best of the best. In New England the reward for remaining in the playoffs is braving the elements, but to get to the regional finals it starts in the off season.
Xavier Thomas and Anthony Whaley, two of the most explosive players in 12u in New England have been running through, around and past their opposition with a combination of speed, power and shiftiness. These Springfield Tigers are looking to represent New England in the AYF National Championships in 2022.
This group of TIgers beat the Norwich Wilcats 40-26, then out gunned the Lynn Rams in a shootout. The Tigers boast a number of playmakers and can score in a variety of ways.
Xavier Thomas #3 trains with his brother and others at Central in the off-season, making himself considerably stronger and faster in the process. A multi sport athlete he also shines on the basketball court for the Springfield Ballers basketball team. Xavier can line up in the back field or the slot and eliminates long runs by the opposing team as the free safety.
Anthony Whaley #1 is another natural athlete who started playing football by playing up with the older group and holding his own. When Anthony's mother finally allowed him to play with his correct age group the peices were finally put in place for this 12u team to take over the CTAYF. Anthony trains multiple times a week in Meriden on days when his football team doesn't have practice. Right after school his mother Rhonda picks Anthony up and drives 45 minutes to his training sessions. Bugga knows that it's not easy but the hard work is paying off. Anthony Whaley followed up his four touchdown performance last week against Norwich with a two interception, 2 touchdown performance versus the Lynn Rams.
Jahir Charles #10 is a tall strong quarterback with a rocket arm. He adds touch to his throws and often places the ball where only his receivers can have a chance to catch the ball. One of Jahir's top targets is Caiden Charles #13 who is track fast and has great hands, Caiden can catch and run or take the top off of a defense.
On the defensive side of the ball Owen Maldoon of South Hadley makes tackles from sideline to sideline. Owen averages over 10 tackles a game and adds intensity and passion to the squad.
"Teams try to load the box and stop X, well then we just go up top to Ant" said Coach Thomas after a thrilling 40-26 win over the Norwich Wildcats. The team has more weapons. From Justin Watkins a 6-3 270lb tight end to the super quick Caiden Charles and the rocket armed Jahir Charles, it's going to be a tough assignment trying to stop the Tigers from getting into the end zone.
Check out some highlights from their last game below.
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