Amateur to Professional Developmental Football League

By: Erin Michaels

It’s official — the championship matchup is set! The Port City Vikings will represent the Western Conference, while the Columbus Storm will carry the Eastern Conference banner. These two teams will meet in the APDFL National Presidents Cup Championship on June 14 at 7 PM in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Over the next several days, APDFL Weekly will feature daily coverage leading up to the biggest game of the season.

The Port City Vikings’ march to the championship has been a showcase of heart, grit, and resilience. After a strong regular season, the Vikings faced immense challenges in the postseason and rose to the occasion each time.

In the Western Conference Semifinal, Port City squared off against the Louisiana Huskies in a tense, back-and-forth battle that pushed both teams to the limit. After four quarters ended in a deadlock, the Vikings showed their resolve in overtime, emerging with a hard-fought 28-20 victory.

The Western Conference Championship against the Crescent City Kings would be even more dramatic. Down by 11 points with only five minutes left in regulation, the Vikings executed a near-perfect closing sequence. A quick touchdown drive, a crucial defensive stop, and a game-winning score solidified their place as Western Conference Champions. That comeback sealed their identity as a team built on belief and execution under pressure.

As they prepare to face the high-powered Columbus Storm in the APDFL National Presidents Cup Championship, the Vikings carry with them a sense of mission and a community full of pride.

1. What has been the biggest factor in the Vikings' postseason success this year?
   "Adversity – we handled it terribly in the previous years, but we were down in both playoff games, overcame it & found ways to win."

2. How are you preparing for the Columbus Storm’s defensive firepower?
   "Preparing more mental than physical, we have the talent & the tools to do anything. It’s getting fundamentally sound in our responsibilities that we are cleaning up."

3. Describe the mindset of your locker room heading into the biggest game of the season.
   "Lazer focused – guys have bought in & trusted the process & vision I had year 1."

4. What does it mean to the Port City community to be playing for the APDFL National Presidents' Cup?
   "Monumental – majority of the team have never won anything, & with the trouble we have in the city right now, the Vikings are a breath of fresh air for our community."

5. What message do you have for your fans and supporters as you head to New Orleans?
   "Enjoy the show!"

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