San Quentin’s football season honored the California Model by competing in the Battle-of-the-Blocks round-robin championship. Each block recruited top-talent correctional officers who volunteered their time and leadership to put the teams together.
The victor secured bragging rights in a winner-take-all three-game championship series.
“Another great event today,” said Warden Chance Andes. “Football is kinda scary because it’s physical, but it’s flag-football so that’s good. I like the good music playing and great weather to go along with it, as we build bonds between building officers and the incarcerated representing their block.”
The officers selected as coaches helped organize the teams. They practiced for over a month before the June 14 game day.
“Today is a good day for the population and staff to leave all the stress behind, to come outside and have a good time. The game shows we’re all human beings who should treat each other with respect no matter what anyone is wearing — blue or green,” said South Block Officer C. Wilson, who coached the South Block team.
West Block officer D. Evans coached his block. “I think it’s awesome to be able to be outside seeing the incarcerated build camaraderie,” said Evans. “It’s sad we lost out, but we competed strong and I’m looking forward to next year.”
Evans spoke of West Block’s losses to both South Block and North Block. Their first game against South Block was a barnburner as West Block barely lost, 16–14. In their next game, they lost to champion North Block, 20–6.
In spite of the losses, the players gratefully participated in the California Model. “I think it was a fun day. The teamwork and communication improved connections with the staff. It’s humbling because [the game is] a family thing, it’s not just football,” said West Block player Arron “Wobble” Moton.
West Block fell in the double-elimination tournament and South Block and North Block faced off in the finale that crowned North Block as Champion of the Blocks.
North Block’s defense stuffed South Block’s high-school legend quarterback Tommie Hall, while the offense garnered 34 points to win 34–20.
During the celebration, North Block’s two-way player Aaron “June” Miles said, “Today gives us a different mind-set and takes us away from the prison mentality by giving us some fun through positivity.”
Champion coach CO I. Hunter of North Block — the only female coach — showed the graciousness of a winner. “I’m really proud to be here and thank the North Block team for trusting me to coach them,” Hunter said. “I feel great. My team knew they were going to win. We practiced hard and came back with a win.”
South Block players handled the loss with dignity. “Even though we wanted bragging rights, it’s about having fun in a safe way for everyone,” said Keyshawn “Steez” Strickland.
SQRC Public Information Officer Lt. G. Berry summed up the day. “Everyone down here showing support is the excitement,” Berry said. The loyal Dallas Cowboys fan added, “I am team South Block and I’m excited to be here. I’m a huge football fan.”
― Journalism Guild Writer Marcus Casillas contributed to this story
