By Katie Vasquez
EAST ELMHURST, N.Y. — It’s a game fueled by passion and determination, and it’s quickly gaining popularity nationwide.
“The sport in general is the fastest-growing sport right now in the country,” said Jonathan Hili, head coach of the varsity girls flag football team at Monsignor McClancy High School. “You’re going to see it in the Olympics. And especially among girls, at the collegiate level, there’s over 50 schools right now sponsoring it.”
Flag football has arrived at Monsignor McClancy High School, one of the first programs in Queens and one of the only all-girls teams in the borough. Seventy-six students expressed interest, but only 24 made the final roster, including senior Ruth Madariaga.
“I really like how it’s fast-paced,” Madariaga said. “With offense and defense, you can be on both sides of the play, and you can still really make an impact.”
The sport is considered safer than traditional football because it eliminates contact. Still, that doesn’t mean players like junior twins Summer and Violet Durante plan to take it easy on opponents.
“I feel like we both wanted to do it, and we always do well together in sports,” one of the sisters said. “We grew up playing sports together since kindergarten, so it was a no-brainer for us to try out together.”
“I think it’s been going pretty good,” the other added. “I’m excited to learn more about it and play with my sister. Maybe we could be like double danger.”
Sophomore Alicia Campos said the team hopes to inspire other young athletes.
“I really think it’s good to motivate young female athletes to play new sports,” Campos said. “We are doing great over here. A lot of girls are phenomenal, and women’s sports are rising. I do believe there’s a bunch of great females out there.”
Meanwhile, their coach is cheering them on, hoping some players will take their talents to the collegiate level and make McClancy even prouder.