Gold squad gets ready for Blue at scrimmage
The blistering heat couldn’t put a damper on the Gold squad scrimmage at Milford’s Briggs Stadium June 19, as they prepare to meet the Blue team in the annual DFRC Blue-Gold All-Star football game Friday, June 21, at the University of Delaware. It is the 64th time the two teams have played to raise funds for the Delaware Foundation Reaching Citizens with Intellectual disABILITIES.
Ambassadors, band members, cheerleaders join the football players to enrich the lives of Delawareans with intellectual disabilities.
Representing Cape Henlopen are Pat Tkach and Austin Mendes along with Vikings’ assistant coach Mike Tkack.
“I have been having a ball,” said coach Mike Tkach. “These two boys are both hard workers and are representing Cape well. Obviously it’s a little extra special for me that I am able to coach my son Pat one more time. Just trying to enjoy every moment with him. Speaking with both of them yesterday, they both were amazed how much offense and defense we put in over three days and how good the talent is across the team. We practice, eat, nap, eat, practice, snack, sleep and repeat. It’s pretty cool. It is also allowing them to get a taste of what it will be at the next level.”
“It’s a honor to play in this game,” said Pat Tkach. “I’m playing with a bunch of great players, and more importantly for a great cause. It’s a honor to be chosen. It’s going to be a little weird though. It’s the last game being coached by my dad. I’ve played for him since I was a little kid. It’s going to be a little different.”
Tkach will play numerous roles with the squad in Friday night’s game as he will play tight end, defensive end, linebacker, kick off, punt and kick PATs.
Mendes will play center, defensive tackle, offensive guard and all special teams for the Gold squad.
“It’s been a fun experience,” said Mendes. “It’s been great to hang out with these guys and bonding with the team. It’s been fun. It’s crazy knowing it’s my last high school game. Last game with Pat and last game to be coached by coach Tkach. It’s cool to be able to have one more game with them.”
Mendes will be playing at Massachusetts Maritime and Tkach will play at Millersville.
“I am proud of both of them and cant wait to see them play Friday night,” said coach Tkach.
