The Odell Eagles concluded an impressive run at the Pop Warner National Championships, with four teams competing against the best programs from across the country. While championships are never guaranteed at the national level, each Odell Eagles team represented the organization with toughness, resilience, and pride—reinforcing the strength of the program from top to bottom.
9U Eagles – Mid-South Division II Champions
The 9U Odell Eagles, Mid-South Division II Champions, opened their national tournament with a hard-fought defensive battle that ended 0–0 at the end of regulation. Facing the San Diego Bolts (CA), the game remained locked in a stalemate until overtime, where the Bolts scored on the final play of their offensive drive to secure the win.
Led by Head Coach Michael Cash, the team was guided offensively by quarterback Makhi Cash and anchored defensively by standout Grayson Thomas, whose play set the tone throughout the tournament. The Eagles later competed in their consolation game against the Hamden Hurricanes (CT), where they fought hard but ultimately came up short. Despite the results, the 9U Eagles gained valuable national experience and continued to build a strong foundation for the future.
10U Eagles – Building on a Championship Legacy
The 10U Odell Eagles, returning to Nationals after winning the 2024 9U Division I National Championship, faced a formidable opponent in the Mo Better Jags (NY)—the defending 2024 9U Division II National Champions. In a tightly contested matchup, the Eagles battled until the end but fell just short in an 8–6 loss.
Offensively, the Eagles were led by Kash Davis and Zion Kirkland, while the defense was anchored by Herb Dalmeida, who helped keep the game within reach. Refusing to leave the national stage quietly, the 10U Eagles rebounded in their consolation game with an impressive 19–0 victory over the Hartford Hurricanes (CT). The shutout was highlighted by the strong kicking performance of Benjamin Tecza, whose leg played a key role in the win.
Coached by Don Davis, the 10U Eagles once again demonstrated the consistency and competitiveness that have become a hallmark of the program.
13U Eagles – Offensive Firepower and Resilience
The 13U Odell Eagles opened their Division II Super Bowl against the Darien Swarm (IL). Despite a determined effort, the Swarm proved difficult to overcome, handing the Eagles a 16–0 loss in their opening game.
The Eagles responded with determination in their consolation matchup against the Manchester Red Hawks (CT), engaging in an exciting offensive shootout that ended in a 32–30 victory. The win was led by quarterback Rocko Rasheed, with major contributions from Miles Kelley and Collin Jefferies. Another standout strength of this team was its offensive and defensive line play, highlighted by David Samuels and Gavin Munoz Smith, who controlled the trenches throughout the contest.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Chris Boleware, the 13U Eagles finished their national run with momentum and confidence.
14U Eagles – Game of the Week and a Statement Finish
The 14U Odell Eagles, Mid-South Division I Champions, entered Nationals in what many considered one of the most anticipated matchups of the tournament against the Fort Myers Firecats (FL). In what was widely viewed as a game of the week-level contest, the Eagles battled until the final moments before the Firecats scored as time expired.
The offense was led by quarterbacks Wesley Marshall and Zeke Austin, along with running back Kamauri Sharpe, while the defense was anchored by Kip Campbell and TJ Davis, keeping the game competitive until the end.
The Eagles responded emphatically in their consolation game, dominating the Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons (MA). The offense exploded behind running backs Future Clayton and Lawrance Patterson, with touchdowns from Anderson Gulledge and offensive-defensive standout Ryder Brown. Coached by Jason Brown, the 14U Eagles closed their national run with a performance that reflected their preparation, toughness, and championship pedigree.
Representing the Odell Standard
Across all age levels, the Odell Eagles demonstrated what it means to compete on the national stage—resilience in adversity, composure under pressure, and pride in representing their community. Each team gained invaluable experience that will fuel future success and continue to raise the standard of the program.
The Odell Eagles organization is proud of every athlete, coach, and family who contributed to this national run and looks forward to building on these experiences in the seasons ahead.