Carlsbad, CA – It was a beautiful Friday night in Carlsbad, as the Vandals came off a two-week bye to face off against the Weber State Wildcats. Now, before we dive into the action on the field, we must address a fact that many folks don’t know: Weber State is from Utah, of all places! Yes, we know, it’s like having a surfing competition in the middle of the Sahara.
But regardless of geography, the Vandals were pumped up after their thrilling victory before their bye week. The excitement in the air was so palpable that even the seagulls paused their squawking to watch this epic flag football showdown under the Friday Night Lights.
The Luca “The Blaze” Locomotion and Mateo’s Magical “Mayo” Flag Pull
Luca kicked things off with a quick gain that left defenders scratching their heads, wondering where he’d disappeared to. But it was Mateo who stole the show with an amazing flag pull, leaving the Wildcats bewildered, like they were playing hide and seek with a magician.
Sawyer, proving she’s more than just a pretty ponytail, 
continued her offensive rampage with a big gain for a first down. Luca, meanwhile, was as elusive as a cat on a hot tin roof, scoring a touchdown to put the Vandals ahead. The Vandals converted a one-point conversion with a deep pass from Wyatt, who we suspect might secretly be a quarterback prodigy, throwing the ball all the way to the back of the end zone. The crowd roared!
Defensively, the Vandals started the game with the grace of synchronized swimmers, with Gavin, Luca, Mason, Mateo, and Wyatt pulling flags left and right. Gavin even moonlighted as a goalie and kept the Vandals in the lead with a crucial knockdown during the Wildcats’ extra point attempt. If flag football had a World Cup, he’d be the star goalie!
Atticus “Tic Blaze” Takes Over, Mason’s Mime Show
In the second quarter, Atticus decided to give Wyatt a break and took over at QB, and boy, did he have some tricks up his sleeve! He threw a big pass over the middle that had defenders tripping over their own shoelaces. Meanwhile, Mason had everyone fooled with a reverse that came within inches of a crucial first down. He should seriously consider a career as a mime.
Sawyer “Soy Sauce”, running from her fullback spot, had the Wildcats on their heels, probably trying to figure out if they were playing against the Vandals or the Harlem Globetrotters.
Defensively, Gavin and Ezra put on a show that would make even Houdini proud, recording a record-tying three flag pulls in the quarter. Gavin also showcased his sprinting skills, securing a first down for the Vandals. Who knew flag football could be so full of surprises?
As the half ended with a score of 7-12, we couldn’t help but think, “Are we sure this is flag football and not a halftime audition for Cirque du Soleil?”
Vandals Unleash the Reverse Sweep and Luca’s Dance Party
The Vandals started the third quarter with an offensive extravaganza, going back to the reverse sweep. It’s almost as if they were saying, “We’ve got more reverses than a Rubik’s Cube.” After a nice drive, they surprised the Wildcats with a fake reverse that had defenders spinning like tops. Luca weaved through the Wildcat defense for another score, making it look easier than a walk on the beach.
Atticus and Wyatt, our resident flag-pulling champions, led the team in flag pulls to keep the Vandals close. They were like ninjas in action, sneaking up on Wildcats and snatching their flags before they even knew what happened.
As the Wildcats created a big play down the left sideline, Atticus emerged from his right safety position like a superhero swooping in to save the day. Harrison, not to be outdone, completed a key flag pull, foiling the Wildcats’ surefire touchdown. It was like a flag football version of “The Avengers”!
“Munzee” Mason’s Push-Up Tradition and the Crowds Go Wild
In a Vandal tradition that’s become almost as famous as the game itself, Mason did push-ups right in front of the opposing team. We’re not sure if he’s taunting them or just showing off his workout routine. Either way, it’s entertaining!
Wyatt – Wy Wy -had the crowd on their feet with a brilliant pass to Atticus – despite opposition pressure – which was deflected into Harrison’s waiting arms in the back of the end zone. It was like a game of pinball, but with flags instead of balls. Unfortunately, the Vandals struggled a bit on defense, and the Wildcats started to pull away.
Mason continued to rack up yardage, and Ezra refused to let the Vandals go quietly, coming up with key defensive plays when they needed them most. They were like the dynamic duo of flag football, with Mason as the jester and Ezra as the stealthy ninja.
Be Smart!!!
In the end, the Vandals lost 19-38. Their hard work is paying off and their offense continues to improve, racking up their second-highest point total of the season. Our heroes also recorded the most first downs and rushing totals of the season. Analysts have noticed a cohesiveness building within the team, and the rest of the league has taken notice.
Go Vandals!
The Vandals might not have won the game, but they sure won the hearts of the Carlsbad faithful with their antics under the Friday Night Lights. Keep your eye on this team; they’re like the flag football version of a sitcom – hilarious and always entertaining!
Next Game!
The Vandals next practice is 5:00 at Poinsettia Elementary where we will continue to build on the positives coming out of game 5.
The Vandals next game is versus Sacramento State at the same field (Poinsettia BB 5) at 6:00 p.m.. Be sure to get your lawn chairs their early to watch your mighty Vandals take on the Hornets!
Thanks to Mariette Hughes for the great Photos and Tina Page for keeping stats!