On October 16th, the Golden Tornados faced the Lynn Classical Rams and walked away with a 36-16 victory. Not only that, but the Tornados also honored Breast Cancer Awareness Month by showing up with their bright pink gear for their Pink Out game.
While the victory was a major accomplishment for the Tornados, the Pink Out game gave the game a deeper meaning. Players and spectators wore pink and ribbons to show support for individuals and families going through hard times affected by breast cancer. “It was a great way to show support for people going through a rough time,” explained Coach Witchie Exilhomme.
As the first quarter came to an end, the crowd cheered and watched tensely as Junior Captain Jayden McGuffie scored a touchdown, giving the Tornadoes a 6-0 lead. Despite missing a couple of key players, the Tornados fought long and hard. Shortly after, Malden converted a two-point conversion, ending the first quarter with a lead of 8-0.
The Tornados continued its momentum in the second quarter when quarterback Joshua “Josh” Dionne connected with running back McGuffie for a 50-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 14-0. Lynn Classical responded with a touchdown and a successful two-point conversion, bringing the score to 14-8. However Malden maintained its advantage heading into halftime.
Following the game, Exilhomme credited the team’s determination to “solid practice all week long,” allowing players to be in the right place and succeed in executing their plays. Exilhomme praised his team’s dedication to getting healthier and improving over the cold weather. “The more physical we can be in cold weather, the more dangerous we’ll be as football players,” he shared.
Exilhomme also reflected on the team’s performance and preparation mentioning that they “we’re very focused,” and “it’s a game they wanted to win.” He also wanted the players to work on staying healthy and returning from injuries. Along with improving on the field, Exilhomme reminded the team to stay focused in their classes and keep their grades up as the first quarter comes to an end.
As the players make their way back onto the field after halftime, the cheerleaders bring the energy back to the sidelines with loud cheers, chants, and spirited routines, encouraging both the players and the crowd. Their enthusiasm helped create an exciting atmosphere while reminding everyone that the game was about more than just football.
The Tornados continued their strong performance in the third quarter. After blocking a Lynn classical punt, Malden gained possession near the 11-yard line. Senior wide receiver Akre “Arioc” Akre then scored a touchdown, followed by a successful two-point conversion from McGuffie, giving Malden a higher lead of 22-8.
In the fourth quarter, Malden’s defense continued to put pressure on the Lynn Classical Rams, helping seal the victory. Senior wide receiver Jemiah Charles intercepted a pass from Lynn Classical and returned it for a pick-six, adding another six points to the scoreboard. The interception gave Malden another big moment in the game and showed how the team was able to make important plays on both offense and defense. The touchdown brought the score to 28-8, giving Malden a stronger lead as the game came closer to ending.
With the defense continuing to hold off Lynn Classical, Malden was able to maintain its lead and stay in control of the game. The players continued to work together and stay focused as the clock ran down, making sure Lynn classical had fewer chances to catch up. Their teamwork, effort, and determination helped them finish strong and secure a 36-16 over Lynn Classical.
In the end, the Pink Out game showed how sports can bring a community together for something bigger than the game itself. It also reminded everyone of the importance of raising awareness, supporting those affected by breast cancer, and showing families that they are not alone.
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