Co-operators Insurance Secures the 2024 Boston Pizza Cornwall Men’s Flag Football Championship with Victory over Team Budweiser

In a thrilling Saturday showdown on November 2, 2024, the third-seeded Co-operators Insurance (10-4) clinched the Boston Pizza Cornwall Men’s Flag Football Championship with a decisive 27-14 win over the two-time defending champions, Team Budweiser (13-1). The victory marks Co-operators’ third championship title in league history, with standout performances from players across the roster, securing their legacy in an unforgettable game.

Cameron Gearey led Co-operators to victory with an MVP-worthy playoff performance. Right from the kickoff, Gearey made his presence felt, pulling off a crucial defensive interception in his own end zone, immediately setting the tone. Shortly after, he connected with veteran quarterback Steve McGillis for a 22-yard touchdown reception, giving Co-operators an early lead of 7-0. As momentum built, Dan West followed up with a 35-yard field goal, extending the score to 10-0.

Refusing to back down, Team Budweiser came back with quarterback Thor Grant throwing a 39-yard touchdown strike to Austin Mackay off a fake field goal play, narrowing Co-operators’ lead to 10-7. Yet, Co-operators’ top-ranked defense maintained relentless pressure, recording four interceptions and two key turnovers on downs. One of the pivotal plays came from Ethan Adrian, who delivered a crucial sack that kept Budweiser’s Grant on the defensive throughout the game.

As the second half began, Co-operators kept up the heat. West connected with Gearey for an 18-yard touchdown, further expanding the lead to 17-7. With another interception by Codie Brammall, West added a 30-yard field goal, pushing the score to 20-7.

Though Budweiser rallied with a 32-yard touchdown pass from Grant to Chase Bingley, closing the score to 20-14, Co-operators quickly reasserted control. Gearey snagged a critical interception, setting himself up for a 7-yard touchdown reception from the 61-year-old McGillis, which effectively sealed the game. West capped off the victory with one final interception, locking in Co-operators’ 27-14 triumph.

Co-operators’ offensive coordinator, Jonny Campeau, celebrated his team’s performance, remarking, “You know it’s a good day when you only have to punt once and you have zero turnovers.” The win also marked a milestone for McGillis, who captured his 10th championship over an incredible 40-year career.

The playoff MVPs showcased the impressive depth of talent on Co-operators’ squad:

• Offensive Playoff MVP: Dan West, with four total touchdowns, three passing touchdowns, two field goals, and ten extra points across the playoffs.
• Defensive Playoff MVP: Matt Genier, who racked up five sacks in postseason play.
• Overall Playoff MVP: Cameron Gearey, with six touchdowns and three interceptions throughout the playoffs.

The championship day was capped with the 2024 CMFFL Hall of Fame induction ceremony. This year’s honorees celebrated two categories of inductees:

• Player Inductees: Jamie Carr (Hype) & Shawn Filion (Jasmar)
• Builder Inductees: Steve Primeau (Black) & Steve McMillan (Bayshore)

The Co-operators’ victory serves as a fitting end to an action-packed season, filled with exceptional plays, seasoned rivalries, and thrilling comebacks. As the team celebrates their championship win, the Cornwall Men’s Flag Football League honors not only the players’ accomplishments but also the legacy of dedication, sportsmanship, and community that defines each season.