Orange County Youth Football League athletes shine on the state’s biggest stage with two victories, unforgettable memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime.
ALBANY, N.Y. — The Orange County Youth Football League (OCYFL) proudly represented the Hudson Valley during the inaugural New York State All-Star Experience, bringing nearly 100 student-athletes and a dedicated group of youth coaches to the University at Albany from July 9-11 for an unforgettable three-day event hosted by Exact Sports.
The weekend wasn’t just about football. It was about earning an opportunity, representing hometown programs with pride, and proving that when communities come together, incredible things can happen.
Day One: The Journey Begins
Excitement filled the campus as athletes from across Orange County arrived and received their official welcome packs before getting to work.
The opening day featured a full combine where players tested their athletic abilities in the 40-yard dash, pro agility shuttle, and broad jump. With evaluations complete, athletes hit the practice field for their first team session, beginning the process of transforming individual standouts into cohesive all-star teams.
Day Two: Learning On and Off the Field
The second day continued with another high-energy practice session as coaches fine-tuned game plans and players grew more comfortable playing alongside teammates they had previously competed against throughout the OCYFL season.
Following practice, players gathered for lunch and an inspiring presentation from guest speaker TJ Kostecky, who shared valuable lessons about leadership, commitment, and pursuing excellence both on and off the football field.
The afternoon concluded with a third and final practice, where the weeks of preparation and two days of teamwork began to come together in anticipation of game day.
Day Three: Lights, Cameras, Football
Championship day began with player check-in before the excitement shifted to Media Day, where every athlete experienced what it feels like to be treated like a true all-star. Players participated in professional video interviews, individual headshots, and official team photographs before making their way to the stadium for the moment they had all been waiting for.
Then it was time to play.
Sixth Grade Opens with a Statement
OCYFL’s sixth-grade team wasted no time making history, battling against some of the top youth football talent from across New York State. In a physical defensive contest, Orange County came away with an impressive 8-6 victory, earning the league’s first All-State Game win.
Seventh Grade Shows Incredible Heart
The seventh-grade squad faced a talented statewide opponent in another competitive matchup. Although the final score favored New York State, 28-14, the OCYFL athletes demonstrated tremendous determination, refusing to quit and battling until the final whistle. Their resilience and sportsmanship reflected everything the league strives to teach its young athletes.
Eighth Grade Finishes on Top
The final game of the weekend belonged to the eighth-grade team, who capped off the event with another thrilling defensive battle. OCYFL once again emerged victorious with an 8-6 win, giving the league two victories in its inaugural appearance at the New York State All-Star Experience.
More Than Wins and Losses
While the scoreboard reflected an outstanding weekend, the true success of the event extended far beyond the final scores.
Athletes who had spent years competing against one another suddenly found themselves wearing the same uniform, encouraging one another, celebrating each other’s successes, and building friendships that may last long after their youth football careers come to an end.
Rivalries became teamwork. Opponents became teammates. Individual talent became one Orange County family.
For many of these young athletes, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience college facilities, professional-style evaluations, media coverage, elite coaching, and competition against the very best players from around the state.
As the players headed home, the players returned not only with rings and victories but with memories, friendships, and experiences they will carry with them for years to come.
The inaugural New York State All-Star Experience proved to be much more than a football event—it showcased the character, talent, and unity of the Orange County Youth Football League. If this year’s event is any indication of what’s to come, the future of OCYFL football has never looked brighter.
