By BRIAN TORTELLA

Correspondent

On X @tortreports

Briles said he knew they needed to change the game plan heading into Wednesday’s non-league matchup against Milville. They did exactly that, while adding some pizzazz to the playbook, in Delsea’s 22-0 triumph over the Thunderbolts.

Delsea’s rocky pass-first offensive start may be to blame for the Crusaders’ winless mark through the girls flag football program’s first two games, at least according to coach Rob Briles. Behind a pass-heavy offense, the Crusaders were outscored by 32 points against Pleasantville and Ocean City in West Jersey Football League American Division play the last two weeks. 

“Our kids did a good job today,” Briles said. “We have really nice kids, that’s the important thing. They’re trying. It’s fun to learn the sport, and it’s a learning experience for me as well. It’s totally different from Friday night lights in the fall.”

Briles, who also serves as the head girls basketball coach, couldn’t be more correct in his assessment. Although it sure looked like he stole a page from recently retired football coach Sal Marchese’s playbook, which definitely made the trouncing look more like a traditional Delsea football game when you consider the amount of run plays demonstrated. 

The quarterback-running back dynamic duo of Emma Natalie and Kaiah Braxton led Delsea in the decisive win. Natalie, a sophomore, and Braxton, a freshman, both play basketball in the winter under Briles. 

“I’m feeling pretty good about the win,” Natalie said. “It was a good win. I’ve always wanted to play football growing up, and this was a great opportunity to do that.”

She rushed 12 times for 59 yards and a score, including a 45-yard tear in the first half. The dual-threat QB showcased her skills and is making the most of her opportunity. 

Braxton ran 10 times for 82 yards and two scores, while also adding an interception in the victory.

“I am proud of our team because it’s our first win and our first team,” Braxton said. “I’m trying to stay in shape. When basketball season ended, I thought it was a good opportunity to stay with my friends. Coach (Briles) is very motivating.”

Briles will be the first to tell you that he doesn’t deserve any credit, but he can’t help but smile knowing that his basketball team gets to bond — and compete — in the offseason. He didn’t hesitate when Athletic Director Ken Schoudt presented the opportunity to coach the new sport around Christmas time. Now the Crusaders have a win to their name, with a big opportunity coming against American Division rival Mainland next Friday.