DES MOINES, IA – The Des Moines Blaze Amateur Football Club has been a force in the semi-pro football landscape for over a decade. Now, after 11 seasons, six league titles, two national championships, and two more championship game appearances, the ride is over for the one-time juggernaut.

Boasting a 97-18 overall record over 11 seasons, the Blaze dominated the Midwestern amateur football scene, winning five consecutive Midwest Football Alliance titles, from 2011 to 2015, Semi-Pro BCS National Titles in 2011 and 2013, and going an unprecedented 49-0 between 2011 and 2014.

“We never thought that we would accomplish some of the things we did over the years,” said Team President and Head Coach Tyrone Tyler. “When we started off, we just wanted to play football. Just wanted to have the opportunity to give the guys the platform to go out and play the game that they love.

“I don’t know that there will ever be a team that can pull off what we’ve done. With the six championships, with the 49 and 0 record. It’s nice to end on a high note. Our goal every year is a championship, so it’s nice to ride off into the sunset.”

After the MFA suspended operation due to Covid-19 in 2020, the Blaze returned to competition in 2021 as a member of the Southern Plains Football League, going 9-1 and capturing their sixth championship ring.

Tyler himself now serves as the Head Coach at Des Moines Hoover. With several members of the staff and administration of the 501c3 non-profit organization stepping away after their latest championship run, it seemed like a fitting time to close up shop.

"We always strived to put the best product we possibly could out there," Said co-founder and Assistant Head Coach Nick Cicero. "We've had an amazing staff over the years, so many amazing coaches that helped embody the attitude of "professionalism" on and off the field. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I have experienced and the relationships that were formed. I wish all the members of the Blaze family the best and thank them for everything."