SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO –- The Murrieta Valley Pop Warner 10U Blitzhawks are rewriting history with an electrifying season that has captured the hearts of football enthusiasts and the Murrieta community alike. With a flawless 12-0 record, this talented youth football team is proving unstoppable. Their hard-fought 14-12 overtime win against the Arizona Snakes in the Regional Championship has secured their spot in the highly coveted National Championships in Orlando, Florida, taking place December 7-14. This marks back-to-back Wescon Regional and West Coast Championships, an accomplishment no Murrieta Pop Warner team has achieved before.
The Regional Championship at San Juan Hills High School was no ordinary game. From the opening whistle, both teams delivered a gritty and physical matchup. The first half saw relentless effort on both sides, with each team battling for dominance. The Blitzhawks had an opportunity to score in the second quarter, but a 4th-and-goal attempt from the 1-yard line fell just short, leaving fans on edge.
The Arizona Snakes finally broke the deadlock in the third quarter with a touchdown, taking a 6-0 lead. But the Blitzhawks refused to back down. Demonstrating exceptional focus and unity, they pushed back and scored in the fourth quarter to tie the game at 6-6. The defense rose to the challenge in the closing moments, preventing Arizona from regaining the lead and forcing the game into overtime.
Overtime proved just as thrilling. The Blitzhawks struck first, scoring a crucial touchdown and converting a clutch field goal to take a 14-6 lead. Arizona responded with a touchdown of their own, closing the gap to 14-12. With a chance to tie the game, Arizona’s field goal attempt was blocked—sealing the victory for Murrieta and igniting celebrations on and off the field.
“I am beyond proud of this football family!” exclaimed Head Coach Matt Nunez after the game. “Yesterday’s game was a battle, and the Blitzhawks flat out REFUSE to lose! They showed tremendous poise, maturity, and heart. Unfinished business for us! This team is ready for the National Championship.”
Every step of this exceptional season exemplifies the Blitzhawks’ relentless drive and determination. They began their playoff run with a 28-20 victory over the Oceanside Running Pirates, claiming the Division 1 10U Quarterfinal Championship title with an undefeated record. They followed this up with a decisive 14-0 shutout against the Tustin Gold Cobras to secure a Semi-Final berth. Another commanding performance against Charter Oak, a 21-8 victory, brought them one step closer to their ultimate goal.
Now, the Blitzhawks turn their focus to the National Championship in Florida, where they aim to bring home the title and cement their legacy. This season’s motto, “unfinished business,” perfectly embodies their mindset as they gear up for the next phase of competition. “Our goal is not just to make it to Florida, but to be your 10U National Champions,” said Coach Nunez.
While the players are ready to rise to the challenge on the field, the team is seeking help from the community to overcome financial hurdles associated with traveling to Florida. Donations through their Venmo page have become essential to turning their championship aspirations into reality. “We need the support of the community, and any financial contributions from businesses or individuals willing to help would be greatly appreciated,” Nunez added.
For the Blitzhawks, this season has been about more than just winning games—it’s about making history and inspiring their community. And as they prepare to take on the best teams in the nation, the players, coaches, and families are united in their mission. The Blitzhawks’ story is far from over, and with the unwavering support of Murrieta, they’re ready to leave it all on the field in pursuit of greatness.
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