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SALT LAKE CITY — In 2015, as just a second-year program, the Utah Falconz advanced to the title game of the International Women’s Football League — but couldn’t call themselves champions.
In year three, they finished the job.
The Falconz demolished the previously unbeaten Minnesota Vixen, 49-6 in the title game, thanks to a four-touchdown performance by running back Keeshya Cox.
“It was an amazing performance by not only the O-line and backs, but by our defense,” said Cox, an IWFL standout who was named MVP of the championship game. “They got scored on, but they held them to six points.”
Cox has always shied away from the spotlight. But her performance in the final was the driving force for the Falconz, as she’s been all year.
Her four touchdowns left no doubt who the best player in the league was all season.
“When you think about Keeysha as an athlete, it’s remarkable,” Falconz offensive coordinator Kyle Rasmussen said. “Take Michael Vick; in the NFL, he averaged seven years per attempt. Keeshya averaged 18.5.”
The losing effort in last year’s final was just enough to give Cox and the Falconz motivation to finish the job in 2016.
“It is really amazing because we have so many different types of people on this team,” wide receiver Elisa Salazar said. “We have moms, we have women with Ph.Ds, we have teachers, we have people in the medical field.
“It’s just amazing; we have a great group of people.”
What’s next for the Falconz, who end every game, practice and team outing by shouting “Family!”?
“We are going to enjoy being champions,” Cox said. “I am going to enjoy being MVP and then just take a break for a second.”
