Two undefeated Maricopa Youth Football teams headed to playoffs

While the Maricopa varsity football team may be struggling, Maricopa youth football is having a strong season.

The Maricopa Youth Football League is divided into three age brackets: 7-8, 9-10 and 11-12. Within each of these brackets are typically two local teams.

However, the teams in the Maricopa division go across the county, competing against teams from Casa Grande, Apache Junction, Eloy and other Pinal County cities.

Prior to this year the program only had a fall league, but after constant thrashings by opponents from outside the city, the leaders of the program decided to add an inter-city spring league.

“They saw that other cities were having inter-city spring leagues, which was making them better as teams, so we decided to do it also,” said Karen Henley, a Maricopa Youth Football team mom.

That spring league has paid off.

The fall season just ended, and two teams from Maricopa remain undefeated heading into the playoffs. These teams are the Maricopa Mighty Mite Cougars (ages 7-8) and the Junior PeeWee Vipers (ages 9-10).

Both teams will take part in the playoff that starts Oct. 25; however, because of their records both teams have a first round bye and will not host their first game until Nov. 1.

“We are so proud of our players, coaches and parents for contributing to such a successful season. It’s something the city of Maricopa can and should be celebrating,” Henley said.

It has not yet been determined where or at what times the games will be played, but as that information becomes available, it will be released.

For more information on the Maricopa Youth Football League, visit www.maricopayouthfootball.net

Photos courtesy of Karen Henley