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Thursday, March 11, 2010   41º F

10/10/2009 11:32 PM

Red & Black wins championship for first time in 29 years

By: Katie Gibas

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WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- James Harberson played with the Red and Black for a decade, and he's been coming to the games ever since he stopped playing in the 80s.


"It brings back memories of winning in 1980 and all the guys I knew. That's what we remember, the guys we played with rather than any particular part of the game," said James Harberson, Red & Black player 1972-1981.

Saturday night the Red and Black again played in the Empire Football League Championships where they beat the Plattsburgh North Stars six to nothing.

The team has been in the championships a few times in the league's history, but only won the title once, and that was 30 years ago.

"It's about time. It's a great organization. Great community support and they deserve it," said Harberson.

"We've been here supporting them every game. They've been winning every game. This is the big game. And sometimes we're here and sometimes it's cold and rainy, but we're out here supporting them. This is our big game for them," said Katie Miller, Red & Black cheerleader.

The Watertown Red and Black are the oldest semi-pro football team in the country. The team was started in 1896 and won a World Championship in 1903.

"I don't think much has changed. They play the game because they love it. And they don't do it for school or college. They do it because they love the game and that's the best part," said Harberson.

"I follow them on TV. And I'm always hoping that they're doing well. You know, they're my hometown team. So yes, they mean a lot to me," said Pat Kammerer, Three Mile Bay resident.

Players say it's the fans that keep the team alive and give them the encouragement and support needed to win a championship.