Sports
Bruins Impress In Day One of National Tournament
Lake Braddock wins three in Mel Kiper Jr's 7on7U tournament
The Lake Braddock Bruins breezed through the Mel Kipper Jr 7on7U national championship first round on Thursday, defeating Waterloo East (Iowa) 48-33, Annapolis Area Christian (Md.) 42-34 and Warwick (N.Y.) 48-18.
“It’s really nice. We’re competing against some of the best teams in the nation. These guys have been working hard, just like we have been,” said Lake Braddock wide receiver Tanner Quigley.
Kiper, an ESPN analyst, who is renowned for recognizing athletic talent, remarked on the maturity and discipline of the Northern Virginia teams.
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“I’m impressed with the athletic ability and the attitudes. The coaching is phenomenal and the kids are disciplined,” said Kiper. “They know where they have to be and what they have to do. They had their game faces on from the time they got on the field. They’re focused.”
As Bruin players competed on the field, parents and friends watched from the stands. Fans chatted about the upcoming season while taking full advantage of the pleasant weather.
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“It feels like the season’s getting started. Even though it is July, that’s what it’s starting to feel like. It’s pretty exciting,” said Cathy Baskin, whose son, Will, is a Bruin linebacker.
“There’s such great spirit on this team. Some of these boys have been playing together since youth sports. They’ve come a long way together and we’re very optimistic about the season.”
Lake Braddock emerged as the tournament’s most dominant team in their bracket on Thursday as they scored over 40 points in each of their games.
“We’re excited to play in this great competition. There are a bunch of great teams here and a bunch of Division I prospects. I’m just glad that we got some victories,” said quarterback Tyler Quigley.
The Mel Kiper Jr 7on7U national championship rolled into Chantilly Thursday morning. Poplar Tree Park served as the host site for the three day football tournament, as teams from around the nation converged on the four turf fields.
The Bruins will look to extend their undefeated streak against the winner of Friday’s 1:00 p.m. game between Urbana (Md.) and Woodbridge (Va.).
