Flag Football 2002: 1405 United

With each passing year, an athlete learns that he cannot run as fast as he once did. He realizes he cannot jump as high, nor can he throw as far. Yet his love for sport is undiminished, and his competitive fires still burn brightly. So each year he gathers a group of his closest comrades and attempts to relive his youth one more time. Such is the life of the aging athlete, and such is the life for each member of 1405 United. Denied glory years prior, the members of this proud squad nevertheless stand defiantly, looking for that one magic moment that makes it all worthwhile.

On January 19-20 in Las Vegas, NV, nine veterans of past flag football contests and three relative newcomers attempted to lay claim to a prize that has eluded 1405 United for nearly a decade: the title of champion. Precious few on this team played football in high school, and a three-hour practice the day before marked the extent of the team's time on the field together. The opponents were well-trained, athletic, and determined, something to be respected but not feared. When the game starts, all sides are equal, and each team has a chance to win the day. That, it is said, is why they play the game.

The quest for flag football glory, though, will have to wait at least another year. After falling 35-0 and 28-0 in the opening day's contests, 1405 United rallied during their elimination game, only to fall 26-20 in overtime. Despite the defeat, the game marked a return to the brand of football that had brought the team much success during its collegiate days. The defense returned two interceptions for touchdowns (although one was negated due to a penalty), and the offense produced its first two touchdowns of the weekend. In the end, though, 1405 United came up just short. The heart was there, and the legs were willing, yet the opponent marched on in the tournament. Sometimes, though, the final score does not tell the whole story.

Almost to a man, the members of 1405 United spoke of their experience with joy and laughter. Without a doubt, aches and pains were present in the immediate aftermath of the event, but these brave warriors cared little. They each knew that they had given their all on the field of battle, fighting with their comrades for a shot at victory. More than this, though, they each knew that this tournament was not the end, but rather the beginning. No longer a solitary weekend designed to capture forgotten glory, the Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend is now a chance to celebrate the friendships that make this team so special. The friendships that allow the team to speak openly of a June tournament in Cleveland and another run next January in Las Vegas. The friendships that make 1405 United a living reminder of what it means to play football.

Team Roster

See Also: Flag Football 2001

Submitted 1/25/02.