Utah Islanders

NEWSLETTER

August 23, 2025

Utah Islanders Host Snow College in Fire & Ice Competition

Herriman, Utah.  The Utah Islanders welcomed Snow College back to Salt Lake City for the first time since 2011, hosting the nationally ranked Badgers in a Fire VS Ice matchup at Zions Bank Stadium.

The night opened with a surge of energy. On the third play from scrimmage, running back #1 Keondre Polanco electrified the home crowd by breaking loose for an 89-yard run down the sideline, only to be stopped just short of the goal line. The play was brought back on a penalty which turned out to be a pivotal moment that shifted momentum early.

Snow College seized control in the first half, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on short fields to build a commanding lead. Despite the setbacks, the Islanders responded in the second quarter with a highlight of their own. Quarterback #10 Darius Strickla connected with wide receiver #2 D’Andre Randolph on a 71-yard touchdown strike, cutting into the deficit and putting the Islanders on the board. Kicker #47 Taylor Anderson added the extra point, bringing the Zions Bank crowd to its feet.

From there, the Badgers’ depth and defensive pressure proved decisive. The Islanders’ offense was slowed by five turnovers, and Snow turned takeaways into points ending with a 59–7 final.

Even in defeat, the Islanders showed flashes of resilience. Strickla led the offense both through the air and on the ground, while Randolph averaged nearly 40 yards per reception. On defense, #44 Isaiah Afatasi and #0 George Philip anchored the unit with seven tackles each. Special teams also contributed with multiple returners, including Polanco and #7 James Carpenter, giving the Islanders key field position opportunities.

The Fire & Ice matchup represented more than just a game. For the Utah Islanders, it was a milestone: bringing Snow College back to Salt Lake City for the first time in 14 years, and continuing the mission to elevate Utah athletes by competing against top-tier programs.

Up Next

The Utah Islanders continue their ambitious schedule, on the road to La Verne University.