The Albert Lea ninth-grade football team finished the 2002 season with back-to-back wins, outscoring opponents 92-6.

The Tigers visited Austin and defeated the Packers 24-0, displaying a very solid ground attack and excellent defense.

Outstanding players of the game were Arik Matson, Jesse Tovar and Derek DeSart on offense, and Ben Berhow, Nate Goodnature and Seth Stolaas on defense. Scoring for the Tigers were Corey Berggren, Jamie Zuniga and DeSart.

The Tigers defended their home field against Winona, winning by a score of 68-6. The Winhawks’ opening drive resulted in a negative 15 yards, and the Tigers never looked back.

The Tigers were led by a host of outstanding performances on both sides of the ball.

Leading the way on defense were Mike Honeycutt, Nick Hagen, Troy Olson, Casey Bowman, Ben Czaplewski and Matt Schumann. The Tiger attack on offense also had a host of outstanding performers led by Berggren, Berhow, DeSart, Josh Vu and Mike Polis.

The offensive line of Alex Paul, Wade Kolling, Stephan Sorgatz, Matt Vietze, Bowman and Josh Jordahl set the tone early in both victories.

The freshmen finished the season with a record of 3-5, with two losses by a total of eight points.

The coaches and players wish to thank all of the parents, fans, and players for their support.