Indian River State Champs Honored at Capitol

Patty Ritchie

March 3, 2015

Members of the Indian River Warriors football team traveled to the State Capitol Monday, where they were honored for their capture of the New York State Class A Championship.   

In recognition of their historic 63-38 win over defending state champions the Queensbury Spartans, the Warriors were honored in the Senate Chamber with an official Legislative Resolution.

“The Indian River Warriors are proof that dedication and diligence pay off,” said Senator Ritchie. “Their accomplishments are the result of countless hours of hard work both on and off the field, and it’s my honor to recognize them for their achievements here at the Capitol.”

Fighting back from a 19-point deficit in last November’s championship game, the Warriors’ win is especially significant, as it was the team’s first trip to the state championship and also marked the first time a North Country team won a state title on the gridiron. 

“The road to the championship was long, and the Warriors didn’t travel it alone.  Their victory wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of head coach Cory Marsell and his coaching staff, the guidance and oversight of District Superintendent Jim Kettrick and of course, an entire community of dedicated fans who cheered the Warriors on every step of the way.”

In addition to their being honored by the Senate, the team also joined Senator Ritchie for lunch and toured parts of the Capitol.