ALBANY – In a heart-stopping finale at MVP Arena before a crowd of 3,008, the undefeated Albany Firebirds edged out the Nashville Kats 60–57 to win Arena Football One’s inaugural Arena Crown title, completing a perfect 12–0 season .
Sam Castronova’s Heroics Power Albany
Quarterback Sam Castronova was the star of the night. Named both AF1’s regular-season MVP and Arena Crown MVP, he completed 17 of 25 passes for 223 yards and contributed seven total touchdowns (5 passing, 2 rushing). His defining moment came in the fourth quarter on a fourth‑and‑15 play from the 11‑yard line: facing heavy pressure, he spied receiver Isiah Scott breaking open and delivered a clutch pass to convert. Moments later, Castronova connected with Scott for a 10‑yard touchdown, pushing Albany’s lead out of reach.
A Legacy of Excellence
This championship joins a long legacy of success for Castronova and head coach/GM Damon Ware. Returning to Albany in 2025 after stints in Jacksonville and San Antonio, Castronova reunited with Ware—the architect of Albany’s potent offense. Throughout the season, he threw 61 touchdown passes and rushed for nine more, with only three interceptions.
Teamwide Standouts
Other key performers included receiver Duane Brown, whose explosive playmaking throughout the season earned him Offensive Player of the Year honors. Defensively, rookie Tre Wortham delivered a critical two-point defensive stop in the title game, and Prince Umanmielen’s contributions down the stretch proved essential.
Albany’s Perfect Season and Championship Culture
The Firebirds dominated from the start—outscoring opponents 750–320 during the regular season and playing through one of the league’s most efficient offenses and defensive showings. This perfect season gives them redemption after their narrow ArenaBowl loss in 2024 and cements their status as AF1 rulers.
Looking Ahead: Dynasty in the Making
Albany’s focus is already shifting to next year. Coach Ware emphasized the team will retool only as necessary, maintaining its championship mindset. With AF1 expanding into Ohio and Michigan in 2026, the Firebirds are well-positioned to assert dominance in a growing league.
Final Take
Albany’s 60–57 victory caps a historic undefeated run and establishes a blueprint for excellence in the fledgling AF1. Under Castronova’s leadership and Ware’s vision, the Firebirds have delivered a defining chapter in arena football’s new era.
