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NORWALK, Conn. Norwalk Packersfifth-grade coach Mike DiIorio is aware every team in the Colonial Youth Football team will be trying to take down his team this year. His job is to convey that sense of danger to his young players.
The fifth-graders won the American Youth Football New England championship last November, routing Londonderry, N.H., 27-7, in the championship game. Norwalk lost its opening game before rolling off 11 straight wins. The Packers also won league and state championships.
Were not sneaking up anybody this year, DiIorio said at practice last week at Brookside School. We are the Super Bowl for all of the other towns in the league. Its not going to be easy going in being the big game for every team. Theyll have to bring their A game every week.
Norwalk faces a challenge right from the outset this year. Norwalk plays Bridgeport, usually one of the leagues top teams, in its season-opener this weekend. The Packers then play Shelton, Monroe and Newtown. Those teams, along with the Packers, are probably the best in the 11-team league. They didnt do us any favors with the schedule, DiIorio said. Were going to find out pretty quick how good we are.
The Packers have six new players after a few decided not to return and some moved away. The most important skill position players have returned, including quarterback Jakari Walker, and backs Ras Fisher and Hunter Parks. Everything runs through Jakari, DiIorio said. Hes very intelligent, hes a good leader and hes one of the best players around. He wants to be a good football player. He works harder than anybody.
The Packers, who also have teams for players in grades three through eighth, have been practicing since early August. Beginning this weekend, DiIorios team will find out of if it has the magic to duplicate last years brilliant run.
Were gonna try, DiIoria said. I dont know what the other teams have, but I know theyll be motivated. Well see if we have what it takes week in and week out.
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