WESTERVILLE, Ohio (WSYX) — Girls at Westerville Central High School are making history as they participate in the school’s inaugural girls’ flag football team.
“It’s such a cool community to be in, and it’s fun knowing you’re some of the first people to do this,” Jane Zvolanek, a junior at Westerville Central, said.
She’s one of 15 girls at the school pioneering the new program.
Coach Peyton McBride emphasized the initiative’s importance, saying, “Who says girls can’t play football? It’s an amazing experience for our girls, and it promotes a lot of opportunities.”
The team offers players like Jane the chance to play quarterback, while Sarina Ortega, who grew up playing backyard football with her brothers, enjoys running routes and catching passes as a receiver.
“I thought it would be a cool opportunity to do, and I didn’t think I was going to love it as much as I do,” Ortega said.
The Cleveland Browns support the club by providing footballs, jerseys, and flags, equipping the girls for success in flag football.
“This has been some of the most rewarding time to see these girls go from little no football to now, hey, I know I understand this, I can read this, let’s try this,” Coach McBride said. “They’ve taken control over the situation, and they’ve grown in the experience.”
With more than 70 schools in Ohio and over 65 colleges across the country supporting girls’ flag football, the sport is gaining momentum.
“I wanted our girls, or any girl really, to get to experience the game of football. I think it’s the greatest game there is,” Josh Franke, Westerville Central head football coach, added.
The Warhawks are encouraging other girls to join the game. “I would definitely say get involved,” Zvolanek said.
