With tryouts concluding on September 2nd, the second ever full season of Women’s Flag Football has begun. Flag Football was introduced to Green Level in January 2024, but was only an “exhibition” season of a few weeks. With interest exploding after just a few weeks of play, Green Level was able to form a solid team. That momentum has now carried into a fully recognized program, setting the stage for years to come.
The roster of the 25-26 team features 20 girls, representing all grade levels, that was carefully selected from 50 athletes who came to tryouts. With tough decisions made in a short span, the Gators now have less than a week to build chemistry before their season opener on Saturday, September 6th, where they will play Sanderson at Willow Spring.
An exciting and new adjustment is an entirely new coaching staff. Head coach, Shawn Patil, will be leading the program alongside assistant coaches, Alexandria Connelly and Travis Dalton. Patil, a previous member of the men’s football staff, briefly stepped away from coaching but couldn’t resist returning when the flag football program needed leadership. His experience and passion for the game promises to give foundation to the program.
“I was taking time away from sports but when this opportunity came, I couldn’t say no. I was starting to feel like I was missing a part of me so when there was a chance to get into coaching again, I felt whole,” said Patil.
With Patil being new to the team, he brings lots of new aspects as well. He has intriguing styles of coaching, many goals, and lots of excitement for this new season that he cannot wait to debut.
“I want to create a culture and norm for the program, I want to build those relationships and trust between the players and coaches, I want to continue to grow the sport, to make playoffs and really grow the interest at Green Level. I also think my coaching style will bring lots of excitement to the team, will create a drive to want to compete, and bring the value that everything you do matters. I really want to show the fans what type of talent is out there. We want fans to be excited for a growing, fun, and competitive sport and come out to watch. At the end of the day, we are trying to put out results to other super successful programs in GL,” states Patil.
In total, the team will play nineteen games against various opponents at all different locations. Make sure to come out and support the Gators in this fresh and growing sport!
