By Merian Villanueva and Sheila Inoa
A sport never predicted to come to Passaic High school, has been added to the list of wonderful athletic choices for PHS students. Passaic just introduced its first female flag football team on March 17, 2023, contributing to the school’s legacy and making history. The girls flag football team started its new team with about 20-26 girls ready for their upcoming season. Girl’s sports are often disregarded and often underrated in high schools. Girls must work twice as hard to not just win, but also to prove themselves.
However, that is not the case at PHS. These girls are making a difference, and Passaic High School is right there with them. This is a significant first step that will set the tone for the next generation of PHS girls. Luckily for us, our school has provided the girls with nothing short of overwhelming support.
Starting a new team is hard, but it was necessary; and these girls are definitely taking advantage of the opportunity they were given, and giving it their all. They have all been extremely committed , and it shows. The flag football team begins their days with an hour and a half of practice at 6 a.m., then heads to school after, or has practice in the afternoon from 4-6. These girls have done fantastically well for a new team; they had no experience before being introduced to a new sport and experience at their school, but that didn’t stop them from giving it their all.
The Passaic girls flag football team had only won three scrims up until Tuesday, May 9th, 2023. The dedication these girls have put to this sport paid off, as they defeated Kennedy. The crowd in the stands cheered and chanted for these girls during their first real game. These girls performed admirably against Kennedy , which resulted in a 26-0 victory with the support of everyone in attendance. These ladies are truly making their mark and demonstrating that they are not here to play!.
“The team is performing admirably for a first year team. Overall the team is a great team; there is a lot of leadership and sportsmanship within the girls; everyone communicates and takes practice very seriously,” said Kirveling, senior teammate.
This is only the beginning for this team, with such excellent coaches and players the flag football team will develop and become amazing. I am really excited for the approaching high schoolers and the other ladies who didn’t get to join; you guys are given such an incredible chance with a beautiful team and instructors , but all it takes is your dedication and commitment to the sport. So this is a big thank you to Passaic High School for providing these girls with this new athletic opportunity. Wishing nothing but the best for the next year’s girls flag football team. GO PASSAIC!!!
