Lightning teams make history

Published 8:00 am Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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November was a record setting month in Lunenburg. All four of the Lunenburg Lightning Youth Football teams won their respective Super Bowls, ranging from flag all the way to varsity. Until this year, that hadn’t been done in James River Southside Youth Football League history. Here’s the story of how they did it. 

Lightning Flag (ages 5-7) won their third Super Bowl in a row and completed back-to-back undefeated seasons, defeating Prince Edward 31-7 in the final game. With a record of 12-0, the flag team scored a total of 224 points this season while only allowing 26.

Lightning Minor (ages 8-9) also had an undefeated season, going 12-0. The 8-0 Super Bowl victory over Prince Edward showcased premier athleticism from both teams. The Minor team scored a total of 200 points this year while only allowing 50. 

Lightning JV (ages 10-11) finished with a record of 9-2-1. JV battled hard in their playoff games, defeating Brunswick who they had not beaten this year. That momentum pushed through to the Super Bowl. Where they continued to show their athleticism and drive, defeating Prince Edward 6-0. JV scored a total of 128 points this season while only allowing 50. 

And finally we come to the Lightning Varsity (ages 12-13), which finished with a 7-3 record. Varsity came to the Super Bowl with a chip on their shoulder and a point to prove after losing to Emporia earlier in the season. Their will and determination led to domination on the field while defeating Emporia 15-12. The varsity team scored a total of 156 points this year while only allowing 42. 

“I am so proud of all the coaches, players, cheerleaders, and volunteers for an outstanding season,” Lunenburg Lightning President Chris Bacon said. “I must give credit to previous Lightning President, Derrick Hall, who laid the foundation and passed a well-organized, professional, and successful organization down to me. This is definitely a proud moment for Lunenburg County. I hope these young athletes continue to prosper on the field, in school, and in life.”