A new chapter in athletics is unfolding at Modesto City Schools with the introduction of girls' flag football as a competitive sport for the 2024-2025 school year. All seven comprehensive high schools, including Gregori, Enochs, Modesto, Downey, Davis, Beyer, and Johansen, now have teams, marking a pivotal moment for female athletes in the district.
This move follows the recognition of girls' flag football as a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) sport last year, and the excitement among students and staff is palpable.
According to Timothy Garcia, MCS and Davis High's athletic director, the teams will compete in CIF divisions based on school enrollment, with teams participating in divisions 1, 2, and 3.
"This is one of the fastest-growing sports out there," Garcia shared. "The girls are excited about the opportunity to play, and the future of the sport looks very bright."
Practices are held on-campus after school, and games are held on Mondays and Wednesdays at Gregori, Johansen, or Downey stadiums.
While the enthusiasm is widespread, the program hasn't come without its challenges.
"In the fall, we also have girls' water polo, volleyball, and cross-country," Garcia said, noting that because these sports are held concurrently, it limits the number of athletes who can participate. Despite this, the teams have embraced the opportunity.
"We have a strong sense of community forming around the sport," Garcia added.
Brian Barker, the head coach of Enochs High School's girls' flag football team, reflected on how empowering it has been for young women.
"It’s typically considered a boy’s sport, so breaking that mold has been rewarding," Barker said. "Our school has strong female athletes, and seeing them compete at this level is incredible."
Barker’s approach to coaching emphasizes inclusivity and building team spirit. “All levels conditioned and practiced together during the pre-season, and we held team-building exercises to create a sense of camaraderie,” Barker explained.
The team’s first season saw a mix of close games and big wins, and Barker is confident that participation will only grow, with plans to introduce a freshman team next year due to high interest.
For the players, being part of the first-ever teams at their schools is a source of pride.
“Being on the first team ever is exciting. The teamwork and experience are something I’ll remember forever,” said Natalie, a senior athlete on the varsity team at Enochs.
Lauryn, a junior also on the varsity team, expressed her ambitions: "I plan on continuing this sport in college and want to work towards the Olympics. Maybe you’ll see me in 2028."
The community's response has been overwhelmingly supportive. Garcia noted, "the sport is growing fast, and the girls are having a blast.”
With continued backing from families, schools, and coaches, girls' flag football is set to thrive within MCS, empowering a new generation of female athletes and cultivating a love for the game.
Tryouts for the 2025-2026 season will run between May and July 2025, promising even more opportunities for female athletes to flag a spot in this groundbreaking program.