Unified Football Loses to Elkhart
By Roger Grossman | Sep 25, 2025 8:24 AM

The Warsaw Tiger Unified Flag Football team battled hard but ultimately fell to the undefeated Elkhart Lions by a score of 46-20. From the start, Elkhart showed why they remain unbeaten, boasting high-powered athletes at every position and a passing game that stretched the Tigers’ defense throughout the night. Still, Warsaw refused to back down, responding with determination and several big plays that kept the crowd energized and the game competitive deep into the second half. With 11:41 left in the second half, the Tigers trailed by just six points, 26-20, and momentum seemed to be shifting. A highlight came when Nathan Nette, who has been steady all season, rumbled the entire length of the field on a determined run, escorted stride-for-stride by his best friend and teammate Ben “King Shark” Slabach. Moments later, Slabach punched in the extra points, a sequence that visibly lifted the Tigers’ energy and gave them plenty of belief that an upset was within reach. Adding to that surge, Lillian Jarrett delivered a highlight of her own when she hauled in a 6 or 7-yard completion on a perfectly placed deep post route from quarterback Yohannes Schmitt. That strike fueled the Tigers’ confidence and showcased the team’s ability to match Elkhart’s firepower with explosive plays of their own. Brahdee Taylor and Schmitt rotated under center for much of the contest, handling the relentless Lions’ blitz. Even in defeat, Warsaw’s unity and spirit stood out. Mason Anderson not only played at a high level throughout the night but also provided professional-level encouragement and support to his teammates, keeping the group positive in the face of pressure. Jaron Courtois said, "We really appreciate all the support that we've gotten this season so far. It really means a lot to us. Even my grandpa was able to be here tonight." Warsaw now turns its attention to a pivotal matchup on Monday when they travel to take on county rival Wawasee, aiming to bounce back and recapture their winning ways.