Submitted photo
LAUREL HILL — The Sandhills Seahawks 8U football team will be traveling to Davenport, F.L. to compete in the 2022 Amateur Athletic Union Nationals.
“We will be competing against the Cordele Cobras out of Georgia, Macon United Hurricanes also from Georgia, Waco Southern Panthers from Texas, the Ragsdale Steelers from North Carolina, Coca Youth Athletics Corporation from Florida, East End Tigers from Virgina, Vero Beach Foundation Indians, Middle GA Power, again from Georgia, East Orlando Predators from Florida, and, last but not least, Central Georgia Grizzlies,” said Kasey Monroe, head coach and organization leader.
The 8U players, who are venturing out in hopes of bringing back the national titles, are in need of community support and financial help.
“If you would like to donate for the trip, each player is doing a calendar to raise money for the team,” Monroe said.
The calendar fundraiser consists of people picking a day and donating the amount of money displayed on that date.
“This fundraiser is to help cover expenses such as lodging, travel, food and gas,” Monroe said. “Also, each player is participating in Luv Michael, which is a non-profit granola bakery, dedicated to training, educating and employing autistic adults. When you donate, the Luv Michael Team will prepare a special thank you, complete with Luv Michael’s delicious granola, and ship it right to your door. Your donation will be helping our team, but it will also provide meaningful work for autistic adults.”
Each participant will also receive community service hours, as they help create a more accepting world for those on the spectrum.
“Help us and the Luv Michael Team as they share the love,” Monroe said. “You can also make a contribution via cash app $sandhillsseahawks, or contact our team moms Ms. Catelyn Chance or Ms. Charlene Mcnair. We are also excepting gift cards for gas and food. Donations can also be dropped off at Norris Auto In Laurel Hill to our Vice President Mr. Billy Norris Jr.”
The nationals trip started Dec. 6 and is planned to last until Dec. 11.
“We are very proud of all of our Seahawks this season,” Monroe said. “12U finished ranked number three in the state, 10U finished ranked number three in the state, as well. Our 8U and 6U finished number one in the state, both bringing home state championships.”
Unfortunately the 6U program, even though they qualified for nationals, will not be making the trip due to low numbers.
“We are looking to fix this issue moving forward as we introduce our flag program in 2023,” said Monroe. “We are hoping to bring more kids into the program. Some of this team attended nationals last year as seven-year-old’s and it was a different experience for them. Now, playing in their age group and being battle tested, I know they are ready. We are probably the smallest 8U program out there, but our record doesn’t show it.”
Monroe also added that losing last year’s state championship was an eye opener for them.
“It defiantly changed them,” Monroe said. “As far as work ethic, it was very surprising for me as their head coach. Hearing them say things like ‘coach we just different.’ These kids take this sport very serious and sacrifice to the tee because they always understand the assignment. Having most of these kids since they were five and six years old and continuing on now with them being eight and nine provides a different level to the chemistry, it is totally different.”
The 8U program finished with an undefeated season going 9-0 and scoring 210 points, while only allowing six all season.
“Not only did they win the state championship, but they also won the Battle of the Borders Championship against Virgina,” Monroe said. “This team is a very talented and disciplined team. Every player on this team is also an honor roll student. They are well mannered and very respectful. They are hard working and super smart.”
The 8U state champion team is made up of children from Scotland County, Robeson County, Cumberland County and Marlboro County.
“We are just trying to get better with every rep and gain first downs,” Monroe said. “One play at a time.”
For more information on the organization or to learn how to sign up, contact Monroe or the Sandhill’s Seahawks Facebook page.