Gameday Recap

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Force Win Post Season Berth

Chicago, IL. There were two distinctly different approaches by both teams at Holmgren Athletic Complex last Saturday afternoon. The Detroit Demolition (4-4) took the field first. Pre-game stretches, exercises, and last minute formation adjustments didn’t seem to be a priority. With playoff implications looming, the Force (6-2) clearly were all business as they came through the west gates four across and hands clasped, in total silence as they took the field. A trademark of this 2009 team is preparation and focus, a direct result of a quality coaching staff. Make no mistake, this is a fierce rivalry. The Force clearly was the better conditioned team, handling the warm field temperatures as they dominated in a lopsided 26-6 victory, in front of a very enthusiastic home crowd. “I’ve never been prouder of this team,” said Head Coach John Konecki to his squad at the post game huddle. “You all worked hard and did everything that the coaching staff asked of you. Now, we are going to the playoffs.”

The Demolition took the opening kickoff and quickly went four and out thanks to a swarming defense led by game MVP Kim Marks. Marks and her mates Keesha (Taz) Brooks, Veronica Hernandez, Jennifer Benson, Sofia Sianez, Darcy Leslie, and Jamie Menzyk were relentless throughout limiting the Demolition to 91 yards of total offense. Marks, a three year veteran and rather quiet by nature, understands that as one of the co-captains her leadership is expected. “My job in the huddle and right before a play is to make sure that everyone is focused on every snap,” explained Marks. “When we make big plays it just fires everyone up. I try to keep that intensity going.” “ Kim is an extremely intelligent and talented athlete,” said Defensive Coordinator Jerry Verde.

On the Force first offensive series, an 11 play five minute possession, two defensive standouts, Leslie and Menzyk, were inserted at running back were virtually unstoppable behind the blocking of Brooks, Dawn Pederson, Rosalyn Bennett, Patricia Harper and Martha Dantuma. Leslie’s elusive style complemented Menzyk’s power rushing, as she amassed 152 yards on 17 carries. Alternating quarterbacks Sami Grisafe and Albi Zhubi did a good job of directing things with crisp handoffs and timely passes. As the Force marched down the field a 17 yard pass completion from Zhubi to Harper brought the ball to the two yard line. One play later, Menzyk, fondly known as the “Megabus” bulldozed her way in from the left side as defenders bounced off of her. Carolyn Lee‘s extra point made it 7-0. Menzyk had two scores on the day in route to being named the Offensive MVP. “I told Coach K that I’m a guard first and my job is to protect our quarterback,” said an excited Menzyk with just a trickle of blood coming from her mouth. “I can’t really put into words how special it is to score today against Detroit who never shows us any respect. As long as our coaches have confidence in me I will do my best when my number is called.” “Menzyk is a super athlete, well conditioned and is so strong that defenders have a hard time bringing her down,” said Konecki.

The Force amassed 296 offensive yards. The winning touchdown came in the third quarter and was set up by a Mark’s interception at the Demolition 25 and she ran it back to the five yard line. Grisafe followed her “O” line right up the middle for a 13-0 advantage. Grisafe added an impressive 37 yard touchdown after freezing the defense on a good fake handoff and running down the left sideline untouched. “This is so awesome to take care of our business like we did, “said Grisafe. The playoffs won’t be easy. As veterans we know what it takes to win. We will continue to work hard and play as a team.“

The Force will travel to Seattle for the first round of playoffs, the game is scheduled for 7pm on June 27.