UPDATE: The Valwood Valiants’ playoff hopes came to a dramatic end with a 28-21 loss to the Frederica Academy Knights in the GIAA AAA state quarterfinals on November 10, 2025. This heartbreaking defeat leaves the Valiants, region runner-ups, with a final record of 6-4 for the season.
In a game filled with tension and emotion, the Valiants were pushed to the brink as the Knights extended their lead to 28-14 on an 18-yard touchdown catch by Jaylen Baldwin with just 3:25 left. The atmosphere was electric but heavy with anticipation as the home crowd fell silent. However, Valwood quickly reignited hope when Tucker Daniel returned the ensuing kickoff 60 yards for a touchdown, narrowing the gap to 28-21 with 3:13 remaining.
Desperation turned to determination as Valwood executed an onside kick, recovering the ball thanks to Deonte Henley and Ayundrae Belcher. With the game on the line, Coach Brad Wells made a pivotal decision to substitute senior Tayt Snellgrove at quarterback, moving starter Asher Wells to receiver.
On the drive, Snellgrove completed a critical 8-yard pass to Cort Kurrie, followed by a clutch fourth-and-inches conversion. However, all hope was dashed when Snellgrove’s pass over the middle was intercepted by Frederica’s Jayden Gibson, allowing the Knights to run out the clock and seal the victory.
“That kid made a good play,” Wells stated about the interception. “Tayt, he’s playing on his bad leg… we just felt like he gave us the best chance in a two-minute situation to put the ball in the end zone.”
Frederica quarterback Stanton Beverly was a standout, accounting for 282 total yards—173 rushing and 109 passing—along with three touchdowns. His impressive performance kept Frederica in control during crucial moments of the game.
Earlier in the matchup, Valwood missed a golden opportunity to take the lead late in the third quarter when a trick play resulted in a 40-yard touchdown that was nullified by a penalty. The Knights capitalized on the Valiants’ mistakes, scoring swiftly after forcing multiple turnovers and shifting momentum.
The game started off evenly, with both teams tied at 7-7 at halftime. Frederica struck first, and Valwood responded with grit, showcasing a competitive spirit throughout the contest. However, critical interceptions by Asher Wells, who finished with three on the night, hampered Valwood’s chances.
Wells completed 5 of 13 passes for 98 yards, while Snellgrove added 19 yards on 2 for 4 passing. Running back Jackson led Valwood’s ground game with 78 yards on 24 carries and one touchdown.
Post-game, Coach Wells expressed pride in his senior players, emphasizing their development and impact on the program. “This group was freshmen when I got here, and I’ve got to see them grow up,” he reflected. “We didn’t get to where we wanted to, and I think there’ll be some discontent with that, but that’s life.”
The loss marks the end of Valwood’s season, leaving players and fans to reflect on a year filled with highs and lows. As Frederica advances to face John Milledge Academy in the semifinals, all eyes will be on how Valwood rebuilds for the next season.
