This past Friday night, the Rocky Mount Academy Varsity Boys Football Team won their second State Championship in as many years. The Eagles (12-0) beat their bitter rivals Arendell Parrot Academy (10-2) 33-20.

With temperatures hovering just above freezing, fans from both sides piled in the Old Rocky Mount Stadium to watch the championship game. Despite the frigid temperatures, a record number of fans for the eagles decided to head out to support this team one last time. Both teams set their game plans, hoping to stop the other team’s strengths. RMA, heading into the game undefeated, did not change their game plan, rightfully so. Why change what has worked all year? The Eagles stuck to their run game, finding gaps and getting to the edge. The threat of running backs Jacob Hunter and Rod White opened up the passing game, leading to a number of big plays from Quarterback Brice Andracchio, including a 50 yard connection with receiver Zach Fulcher. Defensively, the Eagles had to watch for Parrot’s run game, along with passing. RMA did so, holding Parrot’s offense to just 20 points.

Rocky Mount Academy jumped out to a 13-7 lead after the first quarter, and headed into halftime up 26-13. After a solid first half, things began to fall apart for both teams. The third quarter saw no points, and flags began to fly. The third quarter seemed to have a flag every other play, as things became heated between the two teams. After calming his team down, Coach B.W. Holt was able to lead his squad to their second straight State Championship. The Eagles were led offensively by Sophomore Rod White, Junior Jacob Hunter, and Seniors Brice Andracchio and Zach Fulcher. On defense, Junior Kyle Holland and Seniors Jackson Browder and Landon Clontz all recorded interceptions. Jackson Browder’s interception in the final minutes helped seal the win for RMA. When asked about his interception, Jackson humbly said, “I’m just glad I was able to help the team win.”

After the game, fans and parents stormed the field, ready to congratulate the team. The players were given State Championship Medals and Kyle Holland, Jacob Hunter, Rod White, Gage Chilton, and Michael Legaj were all named to the All-State team. After receiving the awards, Coach Holt talked to his team one last time, congratulating his team on another great season.