960th AACS claims flag football championship

Published Nov. 20, 2007
By John E. Banks
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- All the elements were present for a spectacular flag football game as the 2007 base championship played out Nov. 15 at the Tinker Sports Complex.
   The result was an exciting win for the ages as the 960th Airborne Air Control Squadron Vikings defeated the Tinker Eye Care team, 16-13.
   The game started with a fast and furious pace set by the 960th AACS. Quarterback David Kelley spearheaded the offense with his pinpoint and accurate passing. He completed five of six passes on the opening drive for 62 yards. He then scrambled around the right side of the Tinker Eye Care defense and scored on a three-yard touchdown run. The ensuing extra point kick by kicker Bill Walters was good and score was 7-0 in favor of the Vikings.
   Tinker Eye Care proceeded to march down the field at the outset of the second quarter with a fast-paced offensive attack. The offensive onslaught was directed by quarterback Casey Partridge who completed five of seven passes for 54 yards on the drive. He also added 26 yards rushing, including a three-yard touchdown gallop late in the second period. The extra point was nullified. The score at halftime of this championship contest was 7-6 in favor of the Vikings.
   The second half started with each defense being able to hold its opponent at bay. Each team exchanged punts halfway through the third quarter.
   Kelley then connected to wide receiver Bill Walters on a 60-yard touchdown strike. He split the defense and raced into the end zone untouched. The subsequent extra point failed and the Vikings held a slim 13-7 advantage.
   "I was able to split the cover-two defense and get behind the safeties and my quarterback gave me a great ball to catch," said Walters.
   The offense of Tinker Eye Care was not to be outdone and raced down the field with short passes and key runs by Partridge. Partridge scrambled and was able to find tight end Cam Barnes keeping the drive alive. Partridge then scrambled out of the pocket and pitched the ball to Barnes who raced down the right sideline for the touchdown. The ensuing extra point kick by Todd Bales knotted the score at 13-13.
   The next drive would be the deciding factor in the championship game. The Vikings offense came to life with the running ability of Kelley and key receptions by Walters. This drive continued into Tinker Eye Care territory at the 17 yard line.
   The 960th AACS lined up for a game winning field goal. Walters poised himself and struck the ball and it sailed through the uprights giving the Vikings a hard-fought 16-13 triumph.
   "There is always pressure when you play. I am at a loss for words right now," said Walters.
   With the victory, the Vikings completed an undefeated season at 10-0. The loss was the first for Tinker Eye Care, who ended the season at 11-1.

Base Champs