The Hoosier Hurricanes invaded Homestead, Florida in this past weekend’s Minor League Football News (MLFN) Weekend Super Bowl.
In a game dominated by defense, the Hurricanes defeated the Carolina Express 41-0 to win the MLFN National AA Championship.
“Getting to this point so quickly is unbelievable,” Hurricanes head coach John Starlin said. “I really feel like a proud father to all of these guys.”
While the Cannes offense was strong, their defense play was dominant. The ‘Canes’ forced eight coups and controlled the attack of the Express, which outperformed them in size and strength. Early in the contest it looked like the Express were going to use their offensive Power I to run down the throat of the “Canes” defense. When the Express were forced to punt, the Hurricane’s quick secondary was able to put the game away. The first four rushing interceptions were thrown on this drive, and the Hurricanes never looked back.
“It was a tough team to scout, but I really think they slowed us down,” said Starlin. “Other coaches from their league were able to help me scout, but I knew with the strength of our defense we could play anyone.”
Maintaining the defensive theme of the game, linebacker Deon Smith was named MVP of the game for his 12 tackle performance. He also intercepted a pass and forced a fumble.
The AA national title was the perfect end to a season that was already a short story for the Indianapolis team, founded by co-owners Starlin and David Day and NFL receiver Reggie Wayne. In its first year of existence, the Hurricanes were awarded Best Freshman Team in the Midwest by MLFN after finishing 13-1 in the Ohio Valley Football League (OVFL). The OVFL season ended with a Super Bowl victory over the Charlotte (MI) Roughriders, 21-0.
“It was really a dream season for us,” said Starlin.
Starlin players have also won numerous awards from MLFN. Four’ Canes were honored with Midwest All-American status: Derek Ellis was a Midwest All-American honorable mention at running back, wide receiver Scott Bennick was a second-team Midwest All-American, and Corey Crompton and Charles Avant were first- and second-team defensive backs, though. respectively.
Ellis, the former “Mr. Indiana” while playing in high school, was also named Midwest Regional Player of the Year by MLFN.
The Hurricanes will return to the OVFL next season and compete to become the first back-to-back champions in league history, a feat no team has accomplished in the competition’s 40 years.
“We’re trying to develop something special here,” Starlin said.
It sure looks like the hurricanes have gotten off to a roaring start.
0 Comments