Venice High has debuted girls’ flag football this fall. Physical Education teacher Briana Vestal, a coach, said the team is “off to a fantastic start” at Venice in its debut. 

“The high point is definitely seeing how much pride the girls take in being part of the inaugural team and how they’ve embraced the challenge of learning a new sport,” said Vestal.

“The girls are motivated, committed, and eager to improve every week,” she said. 

The team is currently 6-3, being undefeated in league, with their most recent game against the Hamilton Yankees with the Gondoliers winning 48-18. 

The team will play against the University Wildcats, 2-10-1, today at 3:00 p.m.

“We expect to compete with intensity, play smart, and to leave it all out of the field while continuing to grow as a team,” said Vestal. 

“Every game is an opportunity to improve and build on what we’ve been working on in practice.”

Vestal said she’s happy to be involved in giving girls “opportunities to compete and grow” through flag football.  

“As a coach, helping athletes discover their potential and develop new skills is incredibly rewarding, and flag football has been the perfect sport to do that,” she said. 

Senior Lelani Taylor, a captain, is proud of how the team is doing.

“I knew we were going to do great and we proved it,” she said. 

“Many people underestimate the team because it’s very new.” 

Sophomore Abisola Forrester, a captain, was proud of winning her first league game. 

“I’m manifesting right now, we’re going to be league champions,” said Forrester.

Forrester said her introduction to the sport came from her family. “My little brother played flag football and I used to help my dad coach his team,” she said.

“He only had one girl on the team, but I thought it was dope that she was playing with them.” 

Forrester said this has propelled her into her role as part of the Venice team. 

“We’re making history and I’m proud to be a part of it.”