Growth in popularity seen state-wide

Minnehaha Academy is kicking off an exciting new chapter this spring with the introduction of girls’ flag football. A sport designed to build friendship, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Despite some initial hesitation about launching a new program on short notice, the team quickly gained momentum, drawing an enthusiastic roster of 26 players. The program reflects a broader effort to expand athletic opportunities for students while building a strong team culture from the ground up. 

“I joined flag football because I enjoy watching football, and it’s been getting popular over the years, and I thought it would be fun,” said sophomore Thellma Minde.  

Practices for the girls’ flag football team include a lot of scrimmaging, which helps players in the game in a more realistic setting during the scrimmages. Players practice running plays, improving communication, and reacting quickly to different situations on the field. It gives the teams a chance to apply what they’ve learned in drills and build better teamwork. Even though mistakes happen, scrimmaging helps players gain experience, build confidence, and understand how the game flows in real time.

Without a doubt, adding flag football encourages girls to get out of their comfort zone and open their minds to new things. On the other hand, flag football can definitely be challenging, especially for the players who are new to the sport. Learning the rules, plays, and positions can take time, and it can be difficult to adjust during the game. 

“I didn’t really know what to expect, but everyone was really welcoming,” said first-year Nylah Hankins.

Her comment highlights the positive team culture that has helped players adjust quickly to the new program. That sense of support has also translated onto the field. As the players continue learning how to work together. Minnehaha is already showing steady improvement.

Communication on the field is important as players have quickly learned how to work together and trust one another, even with these challenges. The team continues to improve with each practice and gains confidence and skills along the way. Minnehaha had its first game Sunday, April 26, at DeLaSalle High School, marking an exciting milestone for the new team as they begin their first season. As the season continues, players are excited to keep improving and growing together. The team hopes to build a strong foundation and inspire more girls to join flag football in the future.