Kathleen Macdonald High School’s girls flag football team wrapped up its second season this fall, running from mid-August through late October. This year gave players the chance to build on the program’s first season and reflect on the challenges and accomplishments that shaped their experience.

Senior Kaliah Harris said, “We didn’t let anyone hang their head low,” explaining that teammates constantly supported each other through mistakes, injuries, and difficult days.

As the team adjusted to a new coaching staff, leadership played a major role in keeping players connected. Harris said, “Leadership really helped when things got tough,” noting that team leaders often stepped in when communication with coaches was unclear.

Junior Maliyah Mamea said, “It was basically the only thing holding the team together,” referring to the importance of leadership during moments of frustration or confusion.

The team also struggled with planning, including practicing on the soccer field and traveling for most games. Despite these challenges, Mamea said, “We went through a lot of inconveniences and struggles, but we finished the season”.

Rivalry games stood out emotionally since the team faced schools that had previously beaten them. Maliyah said, “Those games meant more to us,” explaining that players brought extra energy to those matchups.

Defense was a strong point for the team this season. Mamea said, “I think the defense stood out the most because many teammates preferred defensive positions and showed commitment in practice.”

For Harris, the season held personal significance as her final high school sport. She said, “It was my very last time playing flag football,” which made the season especially meaningful.

Both players said they were proud of how the team overcame challenges, supporting one another, while maintaining commitment from start to finish.