The inaugural National Bowl Weekend featured two games in Fort Pierce, Florida and one in Miami at the historic Orange Bowl.

Fort Pierce NFE Florida Bowl:

Fort Pierce (FL) Fire     29
Greenville (GA) Knights  0

The first half had both teams trying to get their offenses going while trying to contain the others’ offense. The half ended with the Fire ahead by a score of 3 to 0. In the second half, the depth of the Fire overcame a determined Knights team. Two touchdowns late in the third quarter set the pace for the rest of the game.

Fort Pierce NFE National Championship:

Brooklyn (NY) Mariners     33
So California Steelers         7

The Mariners scored first in the middle of the first quarter. The Steelers responded with a score of their own. The Mariners scored again in the second quarter. Half time score was 14 to 7. The strong running game of the Mariners coupled with an outstanding defensive effort enabled them to control the second half. They came away with a convincing 33 to 7 victory.

Miami USA Bowl:

Detroit (MI) Seminoles      33
Central MN Thunderbirds   22

Two evenly matched teams did exactly what was expected, a lot of scoring in a hard-fought, close game. The Seminoles led 15-7 at half time. They lead the rest of the game, always ready to capitalize on a Thunderbird mistake. Both teams played well and enjoyed playing in the historic Orange Bowl Stadium.

The hospitality and preparation by our host, Kurt Holden and the Fort Pierce Fire made this an enjoyable weekend with a very professional atmosphere. The assistance of Dave Rice, Commissioner of the Southern States Football League and Ron Real, President of the American Football Association was greatly appreciated.