By Laurel Adamcik

 The Williams Field Black Hawks met the Thunderbird Chiefs in the Division III playoff’s opening round on Friday, a rematch of last year’s 4AII state championship. Looking to settle the score, the seniors had much motivation to answer the challenge and hand Thunderbird an early exit from the 2011 playoffs. However, unlike last year’s playoff run, this year’s Black Hawks have had more than their share of injuries.

 The Chiefs set the tone on a windy, dusty evening by scoring on their first offensive play, a 65 yard outside run for a touchdown. By halftime, Thunderbird led 21-0 and the dust turned to rain.

 Williams Field got on the board at 8:26 of the third quarter with a Garrett Forsgren touchdown pass to Jordan Johnson, closing the deficit to 7-21, but fourteen seconds later the score was 7-27.

 Alex Howard managed to gain another 131 hard earned yards on 28 carries, but with fellow running back, Sean Schweicher out of the game, the Chiefs continually keyed on him and kept him bottled up and out of the end zone.

 Williams Field improved their ball security, and did not commit a turn-over, while the defense forced two Thunderbird fumbles for turn-overs. However, the depleted offense was unable to convert.

 Black Hawk families and fans would like to thank the players and coaching staff for another successful, exciting season. We wish our seniors much success as they finish their academic career at Williams Field, and look forward to next season, as the torch is passed to the next class of Black Hawks Football student athletes.

Photos by Laurel Adamcik