Buffalo Grove High School has launched its inaugural Girls’ Flag Football team this fall, following the IHSA’s official declaration on February 5th, 2024, which made girls’ flag football an official sport for Illinois high schools. The team has garnered significant interest from girls eager to try out this new sport and it is already off to a fantastic start, with both the Varsity and JV teams performing exceptionally well. The coaching staff includes Head Coach Micheal Dax, and Assistants Tim Miller, Cory Wilks, and Ian McGee.
In late July, Buffalo Grove held its first-ever 10-day flag football summer camp, with an additional opportunity to attend a one day Chicago Bears flag football clinic hosted at Wheeling High School. Some newcomers, such as juniors Henny Espinoza and Katherine Kim, took this chance to familiarize themselves with the sport. “Being able to do the new drills and learning from the professionals really tested my skills and helped me improve on them, and it also put me in the mindset of what it would feel like in a game and what I would need to do,” said Henny, who attended the Bears clinic where former NFL cornerback Ray McElroy shared his passion for football. “I had a great experience at the BG flag football camp. It also gave me a bit of an advantage because I got to try out these new drills before the season started,” stated Kim.
As the varsity team heads into mid-season, their current record stands at an impressive 6-2 run. “I think we have a lot of talented athletes who are picking up the game quickly and learning the different aspects of playing flag football. I’m very pleased with the way we’re developing and coming together as a group,” says Coach Miller, excited about the team’s growth.
Sophomore Kerra Serette, who plays running back on offense and linebacker on defense, has scored around 7 touchdowns this season, including multiple in one game. She attributes her success to her experience in soccer and track, which has helped with her agility and speed. “A successful strategy I use is moving my hips away from the defender, which helps me avoid my flag being pulled,” says Serette.
Junior quarterback Leah Hampton should also be recognized for her strong throwing arm, delivering numerous successful passes. “I play softball and basketball which helps in flag football by being athletic and being able to read different situations,” she notes.
Seniors trying something new are also making significant contributions to the team. Paige Veller and Phoebe Hong have both scored touchdowns. “It feels really good to be part of the first flag football team because we are making history and showing that girls can excel in a sport that has traditionally been seen as male-dominated, even if it’s non-tackle,” says Veller. The Faraci twins are excited to be part of this team, even if only for one year. Chiara says, “The team spirit is fantastic; the coaches and girls bring so much positive energy, and we all make each other better.” Gianna adds, “This coaching staff is truly the best I’ve ever experienced in any sport at Buffalo Grove High School.”
