Armwood breaks through their run though right before the state semifinal game.
The Armwood Hawks are known for their successful football program. Last year, they fell short in the state finals. Earlier this month, Armwood faced off against St. John’s Bartram Trail to see who would move on to the 2011 Class 6A state final game.
This semifinal game was a back and forth struggle that was exciting and entertaining to watch. Armwood showed signs of good defense at times, but the game really became an offensive shootout. The Hawks defense, with four interceptions, did what they needed to win the game.
“It was good football,” said Armwood head coach Sean Callahan, who is in his 22nd year coaching the Hawks. “We try to coach them up hard, and even though the team made some mistakes, they persevered.”
Armwood was led on offense by QB/WR Alvin Bailey and RB Wade Edwards. Edwards stepped up his role on offense due to an ankle injury to star RB Matt Jones. Edwards, a senior, had an amazing game, rushing for 248 yards and three touchdowns.
“The blocking was great,” said Edwards. “My teammates are the ones who push me to do what I do. We are going back to state to redeem ourselves.”
They faced a tough opponent in St. John’s Bartram Trail. The Bears’ quarterback Nathan Peterman, who is going to the University of Tennessee next year, made some great plays during the game, but it seemed like the Hawks defense stopped him when they needed it most. It was an interception by Jarvis McCall that sealed the game for Armwood.
Armwood, who is undefeated, looks to win another state championship at Orlando’s Citrus Bowl.
“We have to clean our game up a little bit, but when we get things together we can play pretty good,” said Callahan.
The Hawks have most definitely done something right this year, and have their sights set on a state championship. This year’s team is full of talent and will be remembered as a solid performing team. The team is comprised of stifling defense, solid offense and quality leadership. With this formula, Armwood will be tough to beat.
For more information about Armwood football, visit www.maxpreps.com. To see the results of the state finals games, go to www.fhssa.org.
