Members of the Gridley Titans 12U football team celebrate their Northern Athletic League divisional championship following their victory over the Corning Lions on Nov. 7 at Harrison Stadium in Oroville. The team included 36 players who began preparing for the season in July. Courtesy photo

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - The Gridley Titans 12U football team captured the Northern Athletic League (NAL) divisional championship Saturday, Nov. 7, defeating the Corning Lions 41-28 at Harrison Stadium in Oroville.

The championship capped a season that began in July when 36 players came together to prepare for the season.

Under the direction of head coach Jason Davis Sr. and the coaching staff, the Titans spent months practicing, developing their skills and working together toward a championship.

Davis credited the team's success to the contributions of every player, rather than individual performances during the championship game.

The victory reflected the work of the entire roster, including players who contributed throughout the season on offense, defense and special teams.

Davis also recognized the volunteer coaches who dedicated their time to the team, often arriving at practices after working full days.

The championship roster included Kobe Neal, Ashton Hospers, Holden Papa, Jesse Delgado, Madden Jackson, Boss Davis, Rush Cooprider, Casen Gruber, Tyler Smith, Deandre Carothers, Levi Mowles, Weston Pequette, Bryant Haywood, Rilee Felkins, Oscar Navarro, Brantley Howell, Owen Brunet and Bladen Thomas, Nash Benson, Israel Hernandez, Jesse Hudson, Adam Hudson, Zachary Alejo, Nova Sharrock, Jayden Mendieta, Truett Crislip, Siaosi Iuli, Julian Gonzalez, Kai Carter, Michael Zaragoza, Esaias Valdes, Jacob Ceballos, Isaac Cote, Chris Johnson, Jesse "JJ" Heredia and Quinton Ontiveros.

The coaching staff included Jason Davis Sr., Sean Neal, Jesse Heredia, Grant Benson, Billy Jackson, Shawn Carter and John Cooprider.

The championship marked the culmination of months of preparation and teamwork for the Titans, who finished their season as NAL 12U divisional champions.

“Hard work and dedication paid off for the 12U Gridley Titans this year,” Davis said.