For years, football at FM has been a super important part of the school culture. But this spring, history is being made with the launch of the first ever girls flag football team. With seniors Carlye Bryant, Mckenzie Romocki and Maddie Romocki leading the way, the team is not just playing a sport, it’s starting a legacy.
For Bryant, joining the team was an easy decision. “I’ve always wanted to be a part of football, but obviously, we only have a men’s team,” she said. “I think it’s really great that we finally have a team specific to girls. It gives us a new perspective, a new sport, something fun to try. And especially being a senior, it makes it really special.”
The team’s creation reflects a larger movement towards expanding athletic opportunities for female athletes. Flag football has rapidly been growing at the high school level, with more schools across the country recognizing it at the varsity level. In Section III, the sport debuted last spring with Baldwinsville winning the sectional title.
Like any new program, the team has faced its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest has been building the foundation for the program’s future. “A lot of teams that have been around for a long time already have traditions and a strong base,” Bryant said. “But for us, we have to start that. We’re the beginning of a tradition.”
That means seniors like Bryant are taking on the responsibility of shaping team culture, focusing on bonding activities and laying the groundwork for future generations to follow.
Beyond this season, the team hopes to inspire younger students to take risks and try new things. “I think this sport is going to shape girls’ sports at our school by showing that new opportunities are possible,” Bryant said. “I hope it encourages younger students to try new things. Maybe they’ll love it, maybe they’ll even get a scholarship for it.”
With women’s flag football gaining popularity at the college level, including scholarship opportunities at some schools, this team could be the starting point for a lot of players.
The team has their games starting in April, and they are focusing on growth and improvement.
“We’re all pretty new to this, so our goal is just improvement, improvement, improvement,” Bryant emphasized. “We want to build each other up, build our skills, and get to where we want to be—winners who do amazing things.”
As a captain, Bryant’s personal goal is simple yet meaningful, “I just want to bring the team together, have a great season, and be the best versions of ourselves that we can be.”
With passion, dedication, and hard work, FM’s first flag football team is already creating an impact. This season marks the beginning of a new era in the athletic program. One where girls can take the field, play a game they love, and leave behind a legacy for generations to come.
