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Youth Football Championships

Dec 07, 2015 11:32AM ● By Greg James

By Greg James

South Valley - Capturing any championship can be a thrilling experience. Herriman and Riverton youth football teams had the opportunity to do just that.

“Football teaches these kids life lessons. It gets them to participate as a team, have discipline and work hard. I see the positive things it has done for my kids,” Herriman Ute Conference President Dave Blonquist said.

Riverton youth football captured six championships. Head coach Brett Candalot’s Peewee team (10-year-olds) defeated Bingham 7-6 for their title. Jackson Peck helped guide his Mity Mite team (11-year-olds) to a 27-0 victory over Corner Canyon. The Midget team (12-year-olds) coached by Chuck Elliot beat Herriman 14-6. All three Junior level teams (14- and 15-year-olds) were crowned champions; Mike Kartchner led his team to a 34-6 victory over Herriman. Randy Gilbert coached his team to a 58-21 win over West Jordan and the team coached by Kris Denos defeated Bingham 28-0.

Herriman was just as fortunate to celebrate their team’s championships. The Gremlins coached by Dan Thompson beat Olympus 33-7. Midget head coach Allen Johnson guided his team to a 26-6 victory over Bingham. Coach Ramsay helped his Mity Mites team defeat Bingham 7-6 for a championship and Danny Wheeler guided his Peewee team to a 9-1 overall record and division championship.

Herriman and Riverton youth football programs participate in the Ute Conference Football Program governed by the national organization, USA Football.

“I am in my fifth year as league president. We have tried to build a good relationship with the high school coaches in our program. Coach Pearce (Herriman head coach) called me first thing when he took over and talked about our partnership. Those coaches get super busy, but he gave us direction on how to teach these kids,” Blonquist said.

Herriman and Riverton boast two of the largest programs in Ute Conference Football. Herriman had nearly 615 participants and 27 teams; Riverton had 26 teams.

“It is always a constant battle to keep everyone in tune. We need to remember that these are kids. They are not going to USC next year, so we do not need to be so stressed out. Our volunteers and community support is outstanding. Even with fundraising, we could not ask for better support,” Blonquist said.

Both programs are run by volunteers. They help with uniforms, equipment, snack shacks, scheduling and safety.