Leonard Jahad, vice president of the New Haven Pop Warner league and longtime advocate for at‑risk youth, called the 13U Steelers a “once‑in‑a‑decade” team as they secured a third straight state championship Saturday afternoon. The decisive 41‑0 victory over Hartford at West Haven’s Veterans Park drew a three‑quarters‑full crowd, underscoring the community’s pride in its young athletes.
Community Unity Fuels Success
Jahad praised the collective effort, saying, “It’s everybody — the kids, the coaches, the team moms, the families, the community that comes out to support them — they’ve all bought in.” The festive atmosphere, he noted, is a rare sight in youth sports and reflects the strong family values that underpin the program.
Coaches Embrace Leadership Development
Head coach Garrett Barros made a bold move early in the season, stripping first‑string players of their jerseys and pads and rotating them into coaching roles. “We’re giving them the opportunity to coach if they ever want to be coaches in the future,” defensive coach Angel Ojeda explained. This hands‑on approach helped players understand game strategy and time management, a lesson that extends beyond the field.
Offensive coordinator Demelle Turner described the championship goal as “a natty,” emphasizing the team’s focus on securing the title while also raising the $3,500 needed for travel to Charlotte for the national competition.
Dominant Performances Across the Board
The Steelers’ offense was relentless. Quarterback William “E.J.” McClary directed the attack with poise, while wide receiver/linebacker L.J. Howard, now offensive coordinator, kept the defense honest. Running back Tobin Edwards delivered a 50‑yard jet sweep for a touchdown, and later, a series of long runs by Jaden Pickette and Cameron Davis Jr. stretched the lead.
Defensively, the unit shut down Hartford completely. Defensive coordinator Martin Colon highlighted the players’ discipline: “They get to understand how much time is on the clock, what you can call and can’t call, what packages to run.” Defensive standout Jomar Rodriguez and safety Trevor Gray contributed key stops, and a hard‑hit by Noah Concepcion earned a cheer from the crowd.
Family and Faith at the Heart of the Celebration
Team moms like Dolores Roberts reminded players to stay grounded, while a Christian Barajas extra point made the score 33‑0, reflecting the faith‑based support that many families bring to the field. “They’re just good kids, good students from good families, and the coaches, they’re all solid, so everyone buys in,” Jahad said.
After the final whistle, coaches and players shared heartfelt reflections. Coach Nate Morrison, who has been with the program since 2021, expressed a desire to continue mentoring younger kids, saying, “I’d rather get to them early and get their fundamentals right.” Coach Jay Davis echoed the sentiment, promising a return next week to chase a second championship in two weeks.
Looking Ahead
With regional qualifiers looming in two weeks, the Steelers remain focused on maintaining their winning streak and preparing for the national stage in Charlotte. The community’s continued support, from cheering families to dedicated volunteers, will be essential as the team strives to bring home another title.
For parents and fans, the Steelers’ success story is a testament to the power of teamwork, faith, and family involvement in shaping the next generation of leaders.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
