BROCKPORT, NY — One year ago, they were just a club team finding their footing. Now, the SUNY Brockport Women’s Flag Football team has claimed their spot at the top of the conference.
In their first season as a varsity program, the Golden Eagles made history, rallying past Elmira 36–31 at Bob Boozer Field to win the first-ever Empire 8 Championship.
Backed by a loud home crowd, Brockport battled through adversity, overcoming an early deficit.
Elmira came out fast, jumping to a 12–0 lead in the opening quarter and putting Brockport on its heels. Freshman Addy VanDeWater had sparked the turnaround for the Golden Eagles before the half.
VanDeWater’s interception not only gave Brockport its first points but, maybe more importantly, a jolt of energy.
By halftime, Brockport had secured a 13–12 lead.
At the center of it all was quarterback Megan Gerber, who led the offense with both her arm and her legs. In the championship game alone, she rushed for 260 yards and a touchdown while throwing for 127 yards and three more scores.
Later on in the post-game award ceremony, Gerber was named Empire 8 Tournament MVP.
Gerber’s scoring passes were hauled in by Addy VanDewater, Caitlynn Haugh, and Trelani Harper, each of whom recorded a touchdown reception to power the Golden Eagles’ offense.
But this win wasn’t just about scoring—it was also about defense making big plays at the right moments.
Brockport’s defense came up with eight interceptions on the day, constantly putting pressure on Elmira. VanDewater and Lauren Cundra each grabbed three interceptions, while Ava Leyh added another.
One of the biggest moments came in the third quarter. Elmira was looking to convert a two-point play when Gerber, this time on defense, intercepted the pass and returned it the length of the field for two points the other way; giving Brockport another jolt of energy.
The Golden Eagles held on to that energy until the very end.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock, players, coaches, and fans celebrated a moment that had been building long before this season ever started.
The victory adds another chapter to Brockport’s proud athletic history, but it also represents something bigger. In just one season, the team has made a lasting impact, not only on campus but across the community. Young female athletes now have a new path to look toward, and a clear example of what’s possible.
But for now, they can say something no one else can. They are the first-ever Empire 8 champions—and they did it in year one.
