The Watsonville Bengals didn’t win the NFL FLAG National Tournament of Champions, held last weekend in Miami, but coach Frank Galvan said the experience was unforgettable.

The 10 players on the Bengals not only got to play against some of the nation’s other top flag football teams for ages 9-11 years old, but they also were able to participate in the festivities for the NFL’s Pro Bowl, which took place Sunday.

The Bengals, representing the Oakland Raiders because they won a regional hosted by the NFL organization, finished 2-3 in the tournament, which was good for third place, Galvan said. The Bengals fought their way through the losers’ bracket, before losing to eventual champion Miami 14-12 in the semifinals.

Galvan said many of the other teams were hand-picked All-Star squads, while his team consisted players he started the season with, some of whom he’s coached since they were 6 years old.

“To be able to compete tells us we’re only one step away from bringing a national championship to Watsonville,” he said.

One of the highlights of the experience was getting to know San Francisco 49ers linebacker Takeo Spikes, Galvan said. Spikes was present at the Tournament of Champions, and talked to the Bengals during their games.

“He would just come over to our huddle and give them encouragement and let them know how great they are doing,” Galvan said.

Galvan said that the players learned that no matter who big and intimidating NFL players might seem, “they are people like you and me or anyone else.”

After the tournament was over, the Bengals participated in the festivities for the Pro Bowl. They took part in the pre-game show, were on the field for the national anthem, then gave high-fives to the players representing the AFC as they were introduced.

It was a new experience for teams that qualified for the Tournament of Champions, as prior to this year the Pro Bowl was held in Hawaii, and is expected to return there next year.

Galvan said it was a great opportunity for his players.

“The wins and losses mean a lot, but the experience they will take with them forever,” he said. “I know I will.”



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