This year, the girls flag football team exceeded all expectations. The team has only been in existence for three years and they made it to the playoffs for the first time. Not only did they make the playoffs, but they also went all the way to the semifinals. They played in the AA division, which meant that the girls were playing the toughest teams in the city.
As the number 15 seed out of 16 in the city, the expectations were low. In the first round, they faced the number two seed, powerhouse Bayside, who had not lost a game all season. However, the Warriors shut them down swiftly, 13-0. In the quarter finals, a tougher game against Goldstein resulted in another win, 13-6. In the semifinals, where they played against the number three seed, Tottenville, and fought hard, losing to them 26-7.
The past two years, the girls have had losing seasons, but this year they broke even with four total wins and four losses, just barely making the playoffs. The team increased in their divisional placements, tying with CSI/McCown for the third spot. In the past, they held the fifth. However, where the girls really shined was in their playoff run, winning their first two games by a landslide.
Coach Rossi shared some expectations that were set out for the girls this season: “Strive to be better than yesterday. No excuses, no worries, no regrets. Chase your goals with determination and fearlessness.” It’s clear that the girls carried that mentality onto the field throughout their season, embracing their strength and setting the standard for future seasons.