As the second flag football season kicks off, the team is setting its sights on both personal and collective goals. Players are reflecting on their goals, the lessons they’ve learned, and the moments that make being part of the team memorable.

One of the most common goals among team members is to strengthen their understanding of the game itself, which they feel is important to success.

“My personal goal for this season is to up my ‘football IQ’,” said Anna DeBruin, sophomore. “And, as Coach Daly says, just do my best in the new position I have.”

Other members of the team echo the sentiment that understanding is important to success.

“I feel like we’ve improved…our knowledge on the game a lot more,” said Jadelynn Hau, sophomore. We’re a lot more aware of where we belong and what our priorities are at a certain position.”

Beyond strategy, players emphasized how much their communication and energy have grown. Although practices are held at 5:30 in the mornings the team spirit is still strong. From hyping each other up at practice to blasting music together, the team has found ways to keep morale high. As DeBruin put it, the goal is simple: “to have fun during both practices and games, whether we win or lose.”

This year’s roster features a mix of returning athletes and new ones, though overall numbers are smaller after some seniors graduated. Still, the team has a close dynamic. Hau said she especially enjoys the bus rides to away games and the conversations afterward, while DeBruin recalled Head Coach Gebhart’s signature move. “When he gets really passionate, he flips his visor to the side of his head. It’s his trademark move that the team always loves,” she said.

Last year, the team ended the season 2-9. However this year, DeBruin “thinks the team has been good and has greatly improved over last year.”

Although the season is just beginning, players are eager to build on their progress. They’re embracing the new season ahead with positivity and a focus on improvement. With their next matchup against York this Thursday, the team is ready for an exciting week and a promising season to come.