Thursday, May 2, 2024
The Grace Classical Christian Academy Gryphons capped their inaugural season of varsity football this past Saturday by winning the Texas Association of Independent Athletic Organizations Division III state championship.
The Gryphons (6-4) overcame an early deficit to win 48-25 over Hill County (5-8), out of Hillsboro, in the contest played at Allen Academy in Bryan.
"We were surprised, but very pleased and we're so proud of these young men for the way they fought all season," head coach Brett Cain said. "They represented our program well and were such a joy to coach."
The Gryphons trailed 13-6 after the opening quarter, but outscored the Wolves 26-6 in the second to take command with a 32-19 halftime lead.
It was the fourth consecutive victory for the Gryphons, who stood 2-4 at one point in the season. They entered the playoffs with a 3-4 record, then posted wins of 50-0 over Panhandle Christian Home Educators of Amarillo and 32-19 over San Antonio Town East Christian to reach the title game.
The Gryphons played the majority of the season with only seven players. They started the season with nine, but sophomores Wyatt Keith and Bryce Jones broke their collarbones in the opening week and didn't return until the playoffs.
Keith was named the offensive MVP of the state title game after rushing for 128 yards and three touchdowns and catching a 27-yard TD pass. Senior Luke Gjone was named the defensive MVP after registering 13 tackles (2 for a loss) with a sack.
Gjone and Noah Bishop are the lone seniors on the team.
TAIAO Division III state championship
Played at Allen Academy in Bryan
Nov. 25
Grace Classical Christian Academy Gryphons 48, Hill County Wolves 25
GCCA 6 26 8 8 - 48
Hill County 13 6 0 6 - 25
GCCA Statistical leaders
Passing: Noah Bishop 2-of-4, 47 yards, TD; Bryce Jones 1-3, 15 yards, interception.
Rushing: Wyatt Keith 12 carries, 128 yards, 3 TD; Tyce Robshaw 7-49, TD.
Receiving: Keith 1 catch, 27-yard TD; Luke Gjone 1-20.
Tackles: Pierce Thomas 14, L. Gjone 13 (2 for loss), Jones 12, Keith 8, Robshaw 8, Hudson Gjone 4.
Sack: L. Gjone 1.
Interceptions: Keith 2.
Kickoff/punt returns: Jones 2-78.
Points after touchdowns: H. Gjone 3.
