Submitted by Eric Anderson.
Haddam-Killingworth Youth Football Association A squad loses championship game to East Hartford 42-8 on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018.
After starting the season with a 1-2 record including a 12-7 loss to East Hartford in the first game, the A squad rebounded with 5 straight wins to end the regular season with a 6-2 record and the #2 playoff seed. The team then posted victories over North Branford and Cromwell to make it to the title game against the undefeated and #1 seeded Hornets.
The Hornets seized an early 16-0 lead with a 65 yard touchdown run on their first play of the game and another score after a fumble recovery deep in HK territory. The HK defense settled and forced a punt and then a turnover on downs but a 12 play Cougar drive deep into Hornet territory came up short. The Cougars bounced back on their next drive when Tate Callender powered into the end zone from the 5 yard line and with a Cavin Napoletano kick the Cougars narrowed the East Hartford advantage to 16-8. Another outstanding defensive effort returned the ball to HK with under 2 minutes to go in the half but the drive stalled and HK fumbled the punt. The Hornets recovered and scored to take a 22-8 lead at the break. In the second half the Hornets capitalized on HK turnovers and pulled away for the 42-8 victory.
Despite the loss, the team should be proud of their season in which hours of hard work and a dedicated coaching staff helped elevate the team to the title game. It was also the first time in HKYFA history that an A squad team was represented in the championship game.
HKYFA would like to thank the 8th grade players and cheerleaders, most of whom have been members of the league for many years, success in high school and in their future endeavors. A special thank you to the fans who lined the HK sidelines for the championship game and throughout the season and to the many volunteers who contribute to the success of the league.
