5th/6th Grade Youth Tackle Football team cap off season at the Big House

The Manchester 5th/6th Grade Youth Tackle Football team played against Grass Lake in the U of M stadium on October 15, 2025. Photo courtesy of Valerie Davis.

submitted by Valerie Davis

On October 15, 2025, the 5th/6th Grade Youth Tackle Football team capped off a 4–3 season with an incredible opportunity: playing one last game at the Big House against Grass Lake. The boys played tough—just as they had all season—and fought until the final whistle.

Touchdowns were scored by Barret Novess, Logan Lawson, and Cole Goodell, each made possible by strong blocking and teamwork from the entire squad. Every player had the chance to rotate through multiple snaps, just like the Michigan athletes they dream of becoming.

The defense was as stout as it had been all year, with many players contributing to the tackling action.

Coach Goodell shared his pride afterward, saying, “The excitement and look in these kids’ eyes was awesome to see. You could tell their chests were puffed out a little more, getting to say they shared the field with some of the Michigan greats.”

We couldn’t be prouder of these boys and the hard work and dedication they showed all season.

A huge thank-you to all the coaches who poured their time and energy into this team. And an even bigger thank-you to all the parents for trusting us with their players and for raising such a great group of young men.

Photo courtesy of Valerie Davis.

Photo courtesy of Valerie Davis.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.