Sherwood Christian wins GIAA state football championship over Westminster

STATESBORO — In their first season in a new league, the Sherwood Christian Academy Eagles proved they belonged among Georgia’s elite. Facing the undefeated, defending state champion Westminster of Augusta, Sherwood soared to a 36-26 victory Thursday night at Georgia Southern University, claiming the GIAA 8-Man state championship and completing a perfect 11-0 season.

“This one is special because one year ago we lost our last game of the year,” said Sherwood Christian Headmaster Kenny Roberts. “After transferring to a new association, the GIAA, we knew the competition would be tough. Our players worked hard in the weight room, on the field, and in the film room. Our coaches spent hours pouring into our players about football but more importantly, the Lord and life,” Roberts added. “This state championship is a culmination of faith, work, and love.”

While the Eagles led most of the game, the outcome wasn’t secure until Sherwood’s defense stopped a two-point conversion attempt with less than a minute to play.

“That’s the ball game,” shouted Sherwood Christian Head Coach Doug Eason as he paced the sideline following the decisive defensive stand.

Sherwood set the tone early, jumping to a 14-0 first-quarter lead. After the defense forced Westminster into a fourth-down punt, a bad snap gave the Eagles possession at the Wildcats’ 34-yard line. Five plays later, quarterback Tripp Roberts powered through the line for a one-yard touchdown run. Dallas Williams added the two-point conversion to put Sherwood ahead 8-0.

On their next possession, the Eagles struck again with a seven-yard touchdown pass from Roberts to Qwinton Murray, extending the lead to 14-0.

Momentum shifted in Westminster’s favor after a penalty gifted the Wildcats 15 yards and a first down. Westminster capitalized, scoring on back-to-back possessions to tie the game at 14.

The Eagles responded quickly. Roberts connected with Murray on a deep pass, setting up first-and-goal at the 15-yard line. The junior quarterback followed with a run around the left side and into the end zone, giving Sherwood a 22-14 lead at halftime.

In the second half, the Sherwood defense made a game-changing play. Javion McKinley intercepted a Westminster pass and returned it to the Wildcats’ 23-yard line. On the next play, senior running back Bill Dunwoody took the handoff and sprinted into the end zone. Roberts added the two-point conversion, pushing the Eagles’ lead to 30-14.

Westminster answered with an 80-yard drive, narrowing the gap, but Roberts struck again on Sherwood’s next possession. A long run set up first-and-goal at the seven-yard line, and he scored on the following play.

The Wildcats scored once more with less than a minute remaining, but Sherwood’s defense held firm on the two-point conversion attempt, sealing the victory.

“It was a statement for us moving to the GIAA,” said Roberts. “We came out with intensity and finished with intensity. We played as a team for all four quarters and fired on all cylinders.”

Roberts finished the game with over 100 yards rushing and more than 200 yards passing. GIAA television announcers equated Roberts performance to a Tim Tebow-type performance that had him player of the game and likely player of the year.

By Joe Whitfield
Sports EditorBy Joe Whitfield
Sports Editor