This week Central’s Lady Bears continued to find their place on the field, while across the way, Weeki Wachee Lady Hornets added their first win in their flag football program. Monday’s game against Classical Prep yielded another loss for Central, leaving them with a 2-5 season. A (20-0) loss may not seem like a great feeling, but the progress on the field showed the girls they have an extreme amount of potential.
The Lady Bears had three interceptions on Classical Prep. Julia Sesera made two, and Maddie Sapia contributed one. There are two more games left in the season for Central against Citrus (4/13) and Bell Creek Academy (4/20). There may be a possibility to kick in another win before the season closes.
Just 10 minutes west of Central High’s football field, the Lady Hornets played against Bell Creek Academy. While the talent level was equal, the skills were continually developing during each game. Gabby Scott intercepted a pass and ran through the offense to put 6 points on the Hornets’ scoreboard. The Hornets’ defense held those points throughout the game and stopped their opponent’s ability to score. Weeki Wachee celebrated their first win. “We have learned that we are a much better defensive team, and we have started to work that angle,” said Cynthia Cook, head coach for the Weeki Wachee’s girls flag football team.
Central and Weeki Wachee, the only girls flag football teams in Hernando County, have a lot to offer on the field and the sport is becoming very popular throughout the state. Over 200 high schools in Florida support girls flag football, and the sport is also reaching the collegiate level.
This growth of the sport has also caught the attention of colleges. Florida list of colleges:
Florida Memorial University (Miami Gardens)
Keiser University
(West Palm Beach)
St. Thomas University
(Miami Gardens)
Warner University
(Lake Wales)
Webber International University (Babson Park)
But let’s not forget about the World Games. The World Games is an international sporting event held in Birmingham, Alabama, in July. Forbes contributor Kristi Dosh cited a quote from Damani Leech, COO of International NFL in a recent article, “The NFL is committed to opportunities for athletes from around the world to participate in all levels of football and has been supportive of IFAF’s (International Federation of American Football) work to bring flag football to The World Games, a great step forward in their long-term Olympic pursuits.”
So girls, you have a lot of opportunities if you so choose!
