The Northwest Premier Junior Football League’s championship day offered an electrifying conclusion to the season, with young athletes from various age groups competing in intense, hard-fought matchups. The day opened with the Renton Rangers capturing the 6U championship in a gritty 20-8 victory over HEIR, marking an undefeated season with tenacity and skill. The Rangers’ Dondre Dowlen led the charge, dominating the field with 237 rushing yards and three touchdowns, including an electrifying 80-yard dash that thrilled the crowd. Supported by strong defensive efforts from Malaki Finau and Otulau Kamoto, Renton held off HEIR’s determined offense. Jaylen Mitchell’s touchdown and two-point conversion kept HEIR in contention, but Renton’s defensive pressure and Dowlen’s unstoppable runs ultimately clinched the victory.
In the 8U division, HEIR pulled off a narrow 25-20 win over the Tac City Bolts in a game filled with twists and big plays. Alijah Nelson was a standout for HEIR, finishing with 203 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a critical 41-yard run in the fourth quarter that reclaimed the lead for HEIR. His consistent yardage on the ground helped wear down the Tac City defense. Tac City’s Amir Thomas matched Nelson with a powerful performance of his own, racking up 156 rushing yards and scoring three touchdowns, including two long breakaway runs that kept the Bolts within reach. HEIR’s defense, led by Marvin Marshall and Da’Vion Redding, stepped up in the final moments, making crucial stops that sealed the hard-earned championship victory.
The 10U championship game saw the Benson team deliver a commanding performance, cruising to a 34-0 victory over HEIR in a display of offensive control and defensive grit. Benson’s offense struck early with Peyton Taito leading the charge on the ground, scoring a 6-yard touchdown to put them ahead. Taito, along with teammates Junior Falefia and Ryan Cruz, continued to push Benson’s offense forward, while quarterback Jayden Mendoza added two well-timed touchdown passes to further extend the lead. Benson’s defense, with standout efforts from players like Jacob Tupou and Noah McKinney, prevented HEIR from gaining any momentum throughout the game. Consistent pressure from Benson’s defensive line resulted in multiple stops in the backfield and a safety that widened their lead. With a well-coordinated effort on both sides of the ball, Benson capped their undefeated season with a dominant championship win, showcasing teamwork and discipline.
In the 12U division, the Benson Bruins proved unstoppable, overpowering the B12 Bearcats 48-6 in a high-energy championship game. Benson’s offense set the tone immediately with a 50-yard touchdown by Kaiden Peterson-Leonardo on the first play. Peterson-Leonardo would finish with 135 rushing yards and three touchdowns, including a remarkable 75-yard sprint that widened Benson’s lead and underscored their offensive firepower. Quarterback CJ Vala added two touchdown passes, connecting with his receivers in crucial moments, while Benson’s defense, led by MJ Barber and Selassie Trahan-Castillo, shut down B12’s offense with relentless pressure. Trahan-Castillo’s defensive efforts included two interceptions, one of which he returned 63 yards for a touchdown, underscoring the dominance of Benson’s defensive unit. Although B12 managed a late touchdown to avoid a shutout, Benson’s comprehensive performance secured the 12U championship and concluded a season filled with standout achievements.
The day’s final game was the 14U championship, a high-intensity showdown where HEIR faced off against Parkland and ultimately triumphed 34-22. The game featured standout performances on both sides, with HEIR quarterback Cordae Norling throwing for over 200 yards. His reliable target, Keh’ano Corpuz, showcased his athleticism and skill with 135 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Corpuz also thrilled fans with a 70-yard kickoff return for a touchdown just before halftime, swinging the momentum in HEIR’s favor. Parkland’s quarterback, Jadis Lefono, countered with impressive plays, including a 90-yard touchdown run that kept Parkland competitive. As the second half progressed, Parkland mounted several comeback attempts, but HEIR’s defense held strong, with Miguel Martinez and Justin Suega making crucial stops. Suega’s 99-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown after a late Parkland fumble helped extend HEIR’s lead and secure the win. Barrington, Norling, and the HEIR defensive line displayed balanced, disciplined play, carrying them through the game’s closing moments and clinching the 14U championship title.
The Northwest Premier Junior Football League’s championship day underscored the passion, skill, and resilience of young athletes determined to leave everything on the field. With each age group showcasing a unique style of play, fans witnessed extraordinary individual performances, strong defensive stands, and thrilling offensive drives that made each game unforgettable. As the final whistle blew, players, coaches, and families celebrated the hard-fought victories, capping another remarkable season and setting the stage for future stars of the game.
