Two Gonzales Youth Football teams crowned state champions

The Gonzales Apaches 6U and 8U are your 2024 state champions.
The teams traveled to Three Rivers for the state champion in their respective divisions; the 6U Apaches defeated Falfurrias, 24-0, and the 8U Apaches defeated the Dallas Fort Wort Hawks, 6-0.
Coaches of both teams — Ryan Arellano (8U Apaches) and Charles Hastings (6U Apaches) — talked about their seasons and how they got to state.
“The season was full of challenges, but we fought through and came out on top. During our regular season, we lost one game in the last two minutes to Cuero. During our playoff run, it took us fighting right up until the last few seconds,” Arellano said.
“From the start I knew we’d had a pretty solid team being that the majority of our guys played last year. We set some goals this year and from our first outing I knew we were gonna be serious,” Hastings said.
The game was close for the 8U Apaches holding on to 6-0 lead, but Arellano knew his team was ready to fight to the very end.
“The State game was intense and full of emotion. We went into double overtime. It was a defensive battle, but we came out on top. Playing this select team from DFW was definitely a challenge. But we fought through and brought home the gold. It was a proud moment for all from kids, coaches to parents. It takes a village to be successful,” Arellano said.
The 6U Apaches went undefeated this season, only giving up 34 points on defense and scored more than 200 points on their opponents.
“This year’s games have been fairly good. We had a couple opponents give us some challenges (Cuero/Port Lavaca) but overall we just kept believing and getting better,” Hastings said.
The coaches appreciated teaching and coaching the game of football to the players.
“Overall these men learned the game of football leadership an accountability for the age. It felt good seeing these kiddos faces smile knowing they accomplished so much. None of this wouldn’t have happened without our coaching staff. These Dads showed up for this team,” Hastings said.
“We have been practicing since July 16 and haven’t stopped since. The commitment from the boys and coaches has been very rewarding. These kids have grown so much since our first practice and to see them walk away with not one but two rings is a pretty great feeling. We can’t put into words how proud we are of these boys and how they persevered while showing that APACHE PRIDE! Once an APACHE ALWAYS AN APACHE!” Arellano said.
Most the players will be moving onto the next level and players will learn a lot from their championship season.
“They will definitely learn that hard work is rewarding. An Apache never gives up and always fights until the end. As coaches we want them to stay hungry and continue to grow and be the best versions of themselves in all aspects of life. As they continue to work towards the best and never settle for less.,” Arellano said.
The Gonzales County Youth Football League will celebrate the 6U and 8U teams with a state championship parade Friday, Nov. 22 at 4:30 p.m.
The parade will start from the football field down St. Joseph Street to Independence Square.