Monarch HS defeated East HS in a thrilling game Saturday to win the Colorado DI state championship.

Top to bottom: Bastres scores, Savage leads, prop Evan Williams powers through. Tom Reimann photos.

Monarch, which moved up from DII this year, edged East 29-24.

Scrumhalf and captain led the way directing the Monarch attack and scored two tries, including the game-winner. 

"The entire team played well, especially in the second half," said Monarch Head Coach Chris Hanson. "We moved the ball with support by every player."

Monarch didn't start particularly well, and Hanson chalked that up to nerves in a championships game. 

"After about 15 minutes we were down 10-0," said Hanson. "But we got a few runs, made several tackles, and we settled in after that and went to work. That was kind of a turning point."

Monarch's deep three of Warner Wyckoff, Forrest Hudson, and Nate Fisher, was hugely effective, countering East's powerful kicking game. Centers David Unruh and Zach Bastres were defensively sound, while the Monarch pack worked well together. 

"We were able to retain possession, use our forwards well, and then move the ball wide," said Hanson. "The entire team really took to the 1-3-3-1 shape this year, which really fit our style of play.  We are a fit team and this shape allows us to move the ball quick while matching our forwards against opposing backs and spreading them out. East played an incredible game. They are the most disciplined team we have ever played. They move the ball well, they don't cause penalties and they are extremely polished. Bill Baer and his coaching staff have done an excellent job with that program and we know we will have many great games against them in the future."