Peru (N.Y.) High School football team honored as Army National Guard Next Generation Team of the Year

The Peru High School (N.Y.) football team has been honored as one of the Army National Guard Next Greatest Generation Teams of the Year.

Despite an impressive 6-3 record on the field, it was the team’s off-field accomplishments that stood out even more. They organized a “Battle of the Blues” flag football game, which brought together Peru alumni and local New York State law enforcement in a charity flag football tournament, raising crucial funds for pancreatic cancer relief and for Peru Central School District scholarship funds.

The event was dedicated to the memory of New York State Police Captain Chris Garrow, a local hero who died from pancreatic cancer in June 2023. Peru’s team was deeply embedded in the event, uniting alumni, law enforcement and the larger community in support of a cause that hit very close to home.

“Receiving the Army National Guard Next Generation Team of the Year award isn’t just a trophy; it’s a testament to the character we’re building here at Peru High School,” head coach Ryon O’Connell said. “It means we’re instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience that extend far beyond the football field. This recognition is a reminder that our impact reaches beyond wins and losses, and we are creating young adult leaders for the future.”

As part of the event, Maggie Garrow — Captain Garrow’s daughter and the team’s kicker — was present to accept the award on behalf of Peru High and the team.

“It’s so nice to see our school and community be honored for their hard work and dedication to making this fundraiser a success,” Garrow said.

Added athletic coordinator Amie Marshall:”Receiving the Army National Guard Next Generation Team of the Year Award is an incredible honor that reflects the strength, unity, and pride of our entire school community. It shows how, when we come together with purpose and heart, we can achieve something truly special—not just for our team, but for a greater cause that brings out the best in all of us.”

The team joins nine other programs who have also received the award this year, including California’s Mater Dei High School, Illinois’ Prospect High, Massachusetts’ Hudson High, Georgia’s Apalachee High School as well as five others.