LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — A local flag football squad is set to showcase their skills on the national level after clinching victory in a regional tournament in Indianapolis. This was no ordinary flag football competition; the Lexington Elite triumphed in the NFL Flag regional tournament. “We have several months to prepare, and we aim […]
LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — A local flag football squad is set to showcase their skills on the national level after clinching victory in a regional tournament in Indianapolis. This was no ordinary flag football competition; the Lexington Elite triumphed in the NFL Flag regional tournament.
“We have several months to prepare, and we aim to return as the team we were in Indianapolis,” stated coach Michael Logan, who has extensive experience in flag football coaching, tracing his roots back to the YMCA.
“We gathered a group of kids eager to play football, and at one point, we crossed paths and began coaching, which turned into a competitive endeavor, even if it didn’t start off too seriously.”
During that journey, Logan met Eulaun Beasley, and the two have been co-coaching ever since.
“When my son was five,” Beasley recounted, “we were searching for a new sport for him, and by coincidence, we ended up on the same team, and the rest is history. We’re both competitive and driven to win. He brings out the best in me, and I help bring out the best in him.”
In the earlier years, their Lexington team actually took part in a different regional tournament.
“Eight years ago, we participated in the tournament,” Logan recalled. “We lost three games.” “The games were effectively over by halftime,” Beasley added.
Since then, Lexington Elite has established itself as a powerhouse in flag football within central Kentucky.
“It’s been wonderful traveling and playing with these guys,” said Nick Logan, receiver and Coach Logan’s son. “Competing as a team is incredibly enjoyable.”
“What I love most about being around these people is their passion for the game, their enthusiasm, and how welcoming they are,” added quarterback Samuel Wilson. “This is my first year, so their friendliness has really made me feel included.”
In their pursuit of excellence, Lexington Elite returned to the NFL regional stage this year, starting in Cincinnati but narrowly missing the mark.
“I don’t believe we were as prepared [for the Cincinnati tournament] as we could have been,” Coach Logan remarked, “but losing in the championship motivated us to think that with more preparation and practice, we could find success in Indianapolis.”
Indeed, the squad achieved success in Indianapolis, remaining undefeated on their way to capturing the regional title on Nov. 17.
“We were focused in Indianapolis. It felt like no one could defeat us there,” said Wilson.
This regional victory means Lexington Elite will join 31 other 14u teams nationwide in the NFL Flag Championship next July. Each squad will represent the NFL team from their victorious region.
“We represent the Indianapolis Colts, not just Lexington. We are the Indianapolis Colts,” Logan affirmed to the team in the huddle. He later added, “I think it’s crucial for the kids to understand what they are playing for. They’re not just representing themselves; they’re playing for the children from Douglass, the YMCA, Lexington, Indianapolis, and the whole of Indiana. They have the support of many people.”
The team overcame challenges like limited practice and a few injured players during their time in Indianapolis. With a complete roster and ample preparation time, both coaches and players feel confident about their chances in the championship.
“I believe we could play tomorrow and win it,” Wilson stated.
“We have a lot of confidence,” added Luke Kok, wide receiver and cornerback. “If we stay healthy, I truly think we can claim victory.”
“I see this as a fantastic opportunity,” running back and linebacker Tyree Richardson expressed. “Not many kids our age get to experience something like this.”
Coach Beasley concluded, “To achieve what we did without much practice fills me with immense confidence in these boys and their potential over the next six months as we prepare for that tournament, knowing that other teams will be ready to face us.”
In the coming months, Lexington East will be gearing up to represent the Colts in the four-day tournament. The team also hopes to raise funds to assist with hotel and meal costs. To support Lexington Elite on their journey, you can visit their GoFundMe.
