PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Eight teenage youth football players from Philadelphia are facing felony charges in Florida after authorities say they stole more than $2,000 worth of merchandise hours before their championship game.

The alleged theft happened Saturday morning at a sporting goods store in Polk County, where the teens had traveled to play in a youth football championship game.

The players facing charges are ages 14 and 15, and are members of Philly's United Thoroughbreds team.

One of the coaches told Action News over the phone Tuesday that they are not condoning the thefts some of the players are accused of.

He said it ruined a good thing for the entire team of players and coaches who put their hearts into the journey of making it to the championship.

Polk County Sheriff Grady

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