September 11, 2025 by the Seward Folly Staff

The Seward Seahawks’ undefeated run in nine-man football came to a halt Saturday after a grueling road trip to Fairbanks, where they fell 20-8 to the Student Wrestling Development Program in Denali Conference play. The loss marks Seward’s first defeat since the league’s inception two years ago, ending an impressive 18-game winning streak and adding an unfamiliar blemish to the defending state champions’ record.

The Seahawks now sit at 0-1 in league play and 3-1 overall, while SWDP, in its inaugural season, advances to 1-0 in the conference and remains unbeaten at 3-0. With both programs expected to remain playoff contenders, a rematch at the state championship seems more than likely.

Photos by Jena Petersen

Coach Tyler Mallory didn’t shy away from the team’s struggles, acknowledging, “We didn’t block well enough and turned over too many times. Defensively, we were solid, but offensively, we didn’t do enough to win.”

The Seahawks’ offense faltered under pressure, losing the ball on a pair of fumbles and surrendering two interceptions.

Seward took an early lead when quarterback Emerson Cross connected with Lane Petersen for a touchdown in the first half, putting them up 8-0. Then SWDP, a private school known for balancing academics and athletics, found the end zone three times in the second half to secure the win.

Despite the setback, Coach Mallory praised his players’ effort and resilience.

“We played hard and knew they would be a good team. Our goal every week is to play our best regardless of who the opponent is. We just didn’t execute this (past) week. It wasn’t a lack of effort at all. Just didn’t play well enough to win,” he said.

“We are determined to come back better from it. Our goal for now is to get some rest for our bye week, then get back to work next week prepping for all of our conference games coming up.”

With a bye week ahead, Mallory is focused on regrouping.

The Seahawks hit the road again for a matchup in Valdez on September 20, but then get a break from the long bus rides: Seward will host Nikiski at 5:00 p.m. on September 26, giving fans a chance to see their team in action at home. Homecoming follows on October 3 with a 4:30 p.m. kickoff against Monroe, a perfect opportunity for the community to rally behind the Seahawks as they prepare for what promises to be a thrilling playoff run.

The Denali Conference playoffs begin October 10, with state championship games slated for October 17 and 18. Fans are encouraged to turn out, fill the stands, and show their support for Seward football during this pivotal stretch of the season.