SAN JOSE — The Gilroy Browns are headed to the national championship.
The Browns junior midget Pop Warner football team defeated Brentwood in a decisive 24-8 victory Saturday at Andrew Hill Stadium. In addition to being the 2013 League Champions, Gilroy will be packing its bags and heading to Orlando for the national championship tournament at Walt Disney World’s ESPN Sports Complex on Dec. 7.
“They really poured their hearts out and it was a great game from start to finish,” Browns coach Richard Salazar said. “All the kids stepped it up and have been picking it up ever since playoffs and have been doing a great job out there.”
Gilroy’s defense was stellar yet again, keeping the Falcons scoreless for most of the game before giving up a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
The Browns wasted no time getting things going on offense, scoring on their opening drive of the game. The dynamic running back duo of Brandon Bumanlag and Noah Lane both reached the endzone for the team’s other two touchdowns.
“Our offense has really been on fire; we’ve been moving the ball pretty much at will,” Salazar said. “Our line has been doing great in moving the ball. I just feel like our offense is playing good, clean football. …We’re playing aggressive out there and making tackles.”
Gilroy has not competed for a national title since 2001 and has not won since 1995. It’s opponent has not yet been determined as play to reach the tournament is still taking place.
In the meantime, the Browns will be fundraising for their trip to Florida, which Salazar said will cost around $60,000 in transportation and lodging for the team and it’s coaches. Gilroy will host a fundraising dinner and live auction at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Portuguese Hall, located at 250 Old Gilroy Street. Proceeds from the event will help fund the trip.
Tickets for the events are on sale at various Gilroy locations. Contact Melisse Basso at me******@sb*******.net.
