Varsity flag football started the season with two wins against Newnan and Central Carrollton.

The team won their game against Newnan, 7-6, with it coming down to the last minute in the game the defense really came into a clutch position. They stopped Newnan from scoring a touchdown, ultimately winning the game.

Throughout the night, top performers were senior Allie McDonald, and sophomores Brooke Kalen and Raegan Collins. There were also some great passes from sophomore quarterback Olivia Irwin throughout the game.

After the game against Newnan, Starr’s Mill had a break, but the rest did not stop the momentum. The Panthers next defeated Central Carrollton, 19-0.

Last year, the team had an overall record of 9-9, 2-3 in region play. 

With there only being 13 girls on the team this year they have halved the numbers from last year. Such a loss in numbers calls for a new team and a new future.

“[The downsizing in numbers] honestly I think it helps, because it’s easier for them to know their role,” head coach Mark Williamson said.

Along with the halving of numbers, there are only two seniors on the team, compared to having 12 last year. Alongside the many underclassmen, senior leadership might be an important factor for the team’s growth in the future.

“[I mentor the underclassmen] by trying to keep a smile on my face, no matter the circumstance,” senior captain Emma Arnold said. “Just keep up a good attitude and keep my head up.” 

Since flag football is still a relatively new sport, there is still a lot of room for improvement and growth. Beside the inexperience that some of the underclassmen hold also comes potential.

“The future looks good, if they continue to learn the sport, we still have some first and second year players, and they’re just still learning the sport,” Williamson said. “If they are willing to study film and try to learn different defenses and offenses we should have a really good program in the future.”

Although there have been many changes to the team this year, they are moving in the right direction.

Varsity flag football plays another double header on October 28. They play against Westminster at 6:15 p.m. and against Pike County at 7:45 p.m. Both games will be played at Pike County High School.