As the crisp fall air settles over Claremont High School’s campus, excitement builds around the newest addition to the school’s sports lineup: the girls flag football team. This season marks the debut of the team, promising competition and the opportunity for students to showcase their athletic abilities in a unique way.
Under the guidance of head coach Gentry Robertson, with assistance from his wife Kelsey Robertson, the team has been training rigorously, focusing on developing skills and building team cohesion. Sophomore Declyn Fisher is playing flag football for the first time, but she already feels part of the community the coaches and girls have created.
“The coaches are honestly so much fun, and the coach’s wife is always pumping everyone up, playing music, and cheering us on,” Fisher said. “Coach is always making jokes. For a brand new team, it feels like we have all known each other for longer than we have. It’s kind of like a weird little family.”
With a roster filled with both experienced athletes and enthusiastic newcomers, the girls were ready to hit the field and make their mark.
The Wolfpack’s game against Ayala High School on September 10 was the girls’ first time out on the field competing. Excitement filled the air as the girls played passionately at the season opener. Seventeen year-old quarterback Sadie Hannan, who has a background of playing in Powder Puff, is ready to play hard and improve her flag football skills this season.
“We dominated pretty well offensively, we were up 18-6 at halftime,” Hannan said. “Defense was a little harder for us, but it was just good learning moments so we could keep getting better.”
The final score of the Ayala game was a loss, 18-25, but the team showed their effort and dedication by learning from their mistakes and taking the win the next game.
The following day of the game against Ayala, the Wolfpack had their first home flag football game against Northview. The girls played hard and took the win with a score of 20-14. The team put up a fight against Northview, and they ended up cinching the win in overtime.
The introduction of flag football at Claremont High School is not just about expanding the sports program; it is about creating more opportunities for female athletes and fostering an inclusive environment where every student can find their place in the world of sports. With dedicated coaching, enthusiastic players, and strong community support, the team is set to make a meaningful impact both on and off the field. As they embark on this new journey, the CHS community awaits the achievements and milestones that lie ahead for these trailblazing athletes.