This year marks the second full season of flag football as a varsity fall sport across Wake County. Flag football was first introduced at Green Level in the 2023-2024 school year, in a pilot season. Although it’s a new addition to the athletics program, it is building momentum and growing in popularity. The team started from rock bottom and is now looking to shape the program into a success for the gators of the future.
The flag football team has faced challenges as the season began, including technical issues and intense competition. The experience level of the majority of players is minimal, presenting obstacles for the coaching staff and players.
“In the beginning of the season, nobody had played before, so nobody knew how the game worked. And then as the season has gone on, we’ve actually been able to make some catches and plays.” Says senior on the team, Kori Wills.
As a senior, Wills has a major role in laying the foundation for the program. She works to set the tone and lead the younger players. As this is her first and only season, Head Coach Patil and Assistant Coaches Connelly and Dalton push her to leave her mark and make an influence on the team before she graduates.
“I think being a senior, and this being one of the first years that it’s actually considered a real sport, has been a big thing because the coaches are really focusing on the seniors to make our influence before we leave and make the program as best as it can be.” Said Wills, “I think that as seniors we’ve really been able to make an impact.”
The record so far for the team is not ideal; the girls have been struggling to put points on the board. This past Tuesday, October 7th, was the first and last home game of the season. The team lost 33-6 to Willow Spring and fell 20-0 to Apex Friendship. The team was looking forward to playing at home and, nevertheless, gave it their all.
Wills said, “I think we were all probably nervous just because we haven’t had the scores that we’ve wanted to, but I think we were all super excited and we were all trying our best, which is really important.”
Looking forward, the team hopes to continue to improve on the ball and turn the season around. With only a few games left in the season, there’s no time like the present to start focusing on winning games.
“I think now that we understand how the game works, it’s now just kind of tuning in to make sure that we execute all our plays.” Said Wills.
No matter the score, the girls are giving it their all, and their participation is making history. These girls are trailblazers in the world of high school women’s sports. The future is bright for flag football, and it starts with the dedication and bravery of this year’s team.
“I think that you should join flag football.” Said Wills, “I know the score isn’t what we wanted it to be, but I’ve never been a part of a team that’s as nice as these girls.”
It’s up to you! Show your support for the women’s flag football team. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; give it a shot next year. Flag football could be one of the next greatest sports at Green Level. Until then, we wish the flag football team the best of luck for the rest of their season.
