Tioga Wins State Championship

The Tioga Tigers are Champions !  The Tigers have captured the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class D Football Championship with a 33-26 victory over Ticonderoga at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse.  It is the first state championship for the Tigers after competing in the state semifinals for five consecutive seasons.

Jesse Manuel stole the show for the Tigers.  With the score tied at 26-26 and Ticonderoga driving in the closing minute of the game Manuel intercepted a pass to kill the drive and give the Tigers possession.  Manuel then scored a touchdown from 33 yards out with just:16 left to give his team the championship.  With the extra point good the Tigers clinched a 33-26 victory.

Manuel was superb.  He ended up gaining 213 rushing yards on 30 carries and scored three touchdowns including two in the fourth quarter.  He was named the Most Valuable Player for Tioga.  CONGRATULATIONS TIOGA !