UPDATE: The Camden Hills Windjammers have made history by clinching their first-ever state football championship with a commanding 52-26 victory over Spruce Mountain in the 8-player large school final on November 15, 2023, at Edward Little High School.
In a game that showcased sheer determination and skill, Camden Hills quarterback Hollis Schwalm led his team to victory, accounting for 32 points single-handedly. “They just put up new banners in our gym this week, and football was up there with no dates on it,” Schwalm recalled, highlighting the urgency to change that status.
The Windjammers opened the game with an early touchdown and maintained momentum throughout, leading 32-12 at halftime. Coach Chris Christie praised his players for their grit, stating, “We played with utter heart, grit, and determination today.”
Camden Hills, finishing the season with a 10-1 record, dominated both offensively and defensively, forcing five turnovers. Schwalm’s performance included rushing for three touchdowns and throwing another, while teammates Braden Beveridge and Justin Batty also made significant contributions. Beveridge not only scored a touchdown but also made two crucial interceptions, showcasing the team’s defensive prowess.
The Windjammers’ triumph is particularly significant as it marks a remarkable turnaround for a program that only became a full-fledged varsity team in 2009. After facing challenges in previous seasons, including a canceled season in 2015 due to safety concerns, Camden Hills has finally etched its name in the record books.
As the final whistle blew, players celebrated their historic win at midfield, solidifying their place in school history. “We came in here confident… We were prepared and ready for it,” Batty reflected on the team’s mindset leading up to the game.
Looking ahead, the future of Camden Hills football appears bright, with several young players contributing to this historic victory. Coach Christie emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “About four weeks ago we checked our egos and really just started playing together as a team.”
The Windjammers outscored their opponents 292-154 during the regular season and 134-26 in playoffs, demonstrating their dominance throughout the year. With this championship win, they can now proudly display their achievement on the newly updated banners in their gym.
Expect more updates as the Camden Hills community celebrates this landmark achievement in their sports history.
