Sports Kickback Football Takeover Shines in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo, MI — September 6, 2025

The first annual Sports Kickback Football Takeover, powered by T-Mobile and Premier Athletics, brought high-energy youth football action to Kalamazoo this past weekend. Hosted at Hillside Middle School, the event spotlighted four powerhouse programs—Kalamazoo Force, Kalamazoo Raptors, Battle Creek Panthers, and Muskegon Warriors—in a day packed with competition, community, and standout performances.

Game 1: 9U Kalamazoo Raptors vs. Muskegon Warriors

The Takeover kicked off with fireworks as the Kalamazoo Raptors 9U squad dominated the Muskegon Warriors in a 34-0 victory. The star of the game was Syncere Wimes, who found the endzone four times and led all rushers with explosive plays that set the tone early.

Despite the Warriors’ struggles to open the season, Ryan Robinson battled hard, showing grit and flashes of playmaking that gave Muskegon some positive momentum moving forward.

Game 2: 11U Kalamazoo Raptors vs. Muskegon Warriors

The 11U matchup brought a more competitive clash, with the Raptors grinding out a 13-7 win over Muskegon. Kaiden Perry powered the Raptors’ ground game with bruising runs at fullback, while Trae Sarver delivered under center with key completions in critical moments.

Muskegon showcased resilience, highlighted by the strong play of DJ Johnson and Sid Scott, who gave their team a fighting chance until the final whistle.

Game 3: 9U Kalamazoo Force vs. Battle Creek Panthers

The 9U battle between the Kalamazoo Force and Battle Creek Panthers ended in a hard-fought tie, with both sides flashing talent and future potential. The Panthers leaned on Zion Hightower, who scored twice and proved difficult to stop. For the Force, Legacy Henderson impressed defensively, making big plays to slow down the Panthers’ attack, while Rob Brooks broke loose on two long runs that fired up the sidelines.

Game 4: 11U Kalamazoo Force vs. Battle Creek Panthers

The nightcap was nothing short of a statement as the 11U Kalamazoo Force stormed past the Battle Creek Panthers in a dominant 55-0 victory. Quarterback/defensive back DJ Whittaker delivered a performance to remember, tallying 2 passing touchdowns, 2 rushing touchdowns, and a pick-six that electrified the crowd.

The Force’s offensive depth was on full display, with Marcus Hunt, Damarion Jackson, Cam Sawyer, Javarius Deloach, and Jamiere Mabon each finding the endzone. For the Panthers, Jashon Anderson provided the highlight with a dazzling 68-yard kick return, but the Force proved too strong from start to finish.

Community Impact

Beyond the scoreboard, the Sports Kickback Football Takeover showcased the growing culture of youth sports in Southwest Michigan. Partnered with T-Mobile and Premier Athletics, the event delivered a platform for young athletes to shine while bringing families and communities together.

With thrilling performances, breakout stars, and a packed crowd at Hillside Middle, the first-ever Takeover set the stage for what promises to be an annual tradition of excellence in youth football.