This week AFRICOM HQ won the Unit Level Regular Season and Tournament Flag Football Championship for the U.S. Army Garrison in Stuttgart, Germany.

The team finished the regular season with a 4-1 record, then rolled through the double-elimination tournament with a 4-1 record claiming both the regular season and tournament trophies for AFRICOM.

The season's performance was highlighted by a tremendous team defense which allowed less than 7 points per game. Compound the defense with an offense that averaged 18 points a game, and the outcome was often decisive, with six of the 10 games ending with a "mercy rule" designation. Execution was the key to success, as AFRICOM fielded an "experienced" team, with the average age over 36 years old and five starters in their 40's.

This is not meant to say that the success of the team was easy. With temporary duty, travel, leave, and injuries there were lots of holes that needed filling before each game, even in the championship game. However, it was a testament to the entire AFRICOM Command that so many civilians, contractors, and active duty personnel found a way to modify, improvise, adapt and overcome these difficulties and still win decisively.

The defense was anchored by two players. Sergeant First Class "I got your flags right here" Nakia Maxon, was the league's most prolific pass rusher, averaging more than three sacks per game, while Tony "That's another INT" Thompson flew around the field making interceptions all season long.

On offense, Rob Cassube was "Kellen Moore-esque" with his accuracy and overcame a lingering shoulder injury to pick apart opposing defenses and lead the league in total points scored. Rob "I'm still open deep" Smith and Lieutenant Corbin "Get the Man a Red Cape" Dryden, rounded out the team's top three scorers by finding ways to get open and make the tough catches all season long.

In the end, the flag football team offered a great opportunity for civilians, contractors, and military personnel to come together, work together, and achieve week after week, while overcoming all sorts of challenges. While there was certainly a tremendous amount of individual talent on the field, it was the teamwork that led to the Championship for AFRICOM.