Gold Team Shines Bright Despite Blue’s Record-Setting Victory at Blue-Gold All-Star Game

Newark, Del. – June 20, 2025

Though the scoreboard favored the Blue in Friday night’s 69th annual DFRC Blue-Gold All-Star Football Game, the Gold Team delivered a spirited performance marked by grit, pride, and standout moments that deserved more than the 48-18 final might suggest.

Early in the game, the Gold kept pace with their northern counterparts, trailing just 14-12 at halftime. Caesar Rodney quarterback Julius Timmons connected with Emory Womack of St. George’s on a leaping 13-yard touchdown grab that electrified the Gold sideline and the crowd at Delaware Stadium. Womack, who also received the Gold’s Leadership Award, showcased his athleticism throughout the night, including executing a trick-play deep pass after taking a handoff.

Delmar’s Khalid Schoolfield powered in from a yard out in the third quarter, capping off a drive that saw crucial completions from both Timmons and Sussex Central’s Bradley Chavez. That score pulled the Gold within three points—just 21-18—setting up what looked like a momentum shift.

Among the Gold standouts was Milford High School’s Amare Matthews, who made his presence felt on the defensive line. Matthews, wearing #23, brought pressure and hustle throughout the game, helping contain the Blue’s explosive offense early on. His coach at Milford, Jed Bell, served as head coach for the Gold Team, bringing a familiar leadership presence and strong sideline energy.

“The scoreboard didn’t reflect our effort,” said Bell. “Our guys played with heart and gave it everything they had. We represented the south with pride.”

The Gold squad, comprised of players from schools south of the C&D Canal and Red Lion Christian Academy, brought regional pride to the field, embodying the spirit of the DFRC tradition. Several of their athletes formed strong bonds with their Blue-Gold Buddies—children with intellectual disabilities—through the program’s signature Hand-in-Hand initiative, which remains the heart of this storied game.

While MVP honors went to the Blue’s Brysheem Davis after a six-catch, 225-yard, two-touchdown performance, the Gold players left their own lasting mark—through effort, sportsmanship, and the relationships they built during game week.

“This game was bigger than football,” said Womack. “It was about making a difference and being part of something meaningful.”

The DFRC Blue-Gold Game, which began in 1956, has now raised nearly $7 million in support of programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. And while the Blue added another win to its series lead, the Gold walked away with a victory of their own—in character, connection, and community.