LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Las Vegas Rebels eight-and-under football team is heading back to Florida to compete for a national championship.
The team went undefeated last season and earned a shot at a national championship in Florida. Players, parents, and people across Las Vegas rallied around the team, raising money for airfare, hotels, and meals so the entire team could attend.
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“That national trip, I think it cost us about $100,000 to take all 19 kids with all the parents,” said Hhymoun Pearson, a parent of a player.
“It was a financial burden,” Pearson said. “I mean, you spend a lot of money going out, traveling, paying for lodging, equipment, transportation.”
Team disqualified after winning title game
The Rebels won in Florida, but a clerical roster error, in which one player was listed on two teams, led to the team’s disqualification after the game.
“We didn’t lose, but they took it away from our kids,” said Anthony Lucius, coach of the Las Vegas Rebels 8U.
Team qualifies for return trip
The Rebels have won game after game this season. The team has now qualified for a return trip to Florida for another opportunity to earn the national championship title.
“Now we’re fighting harder than ever to get back and earn what was ours,” Lucius said. He added, “This is our redemption team. This is our redemption year.”
“We’re always all-in. We do not miss practice. We don’t miss games,” said Tamara Deel, a parent of a player.
“They’ve been there, they’ve done it. Now they’ve got to finish it,” Lucius said.
“We’ll be the only one that will bring it home. We’re the number one team,” said players Harlow Fuimaono, Faata Falafua and Jadori Williams.
This year’s national championship kicks off the first weekend in December. The Las Vegas Rebels are still fundraising so every child on the team can attend. Those interested in donating can visit linktr.ee/youthrebels.2016.
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