A first time for first downs: Upland High School鈥檚 inaugural flag football season
UPLAND, Calif. — Individuals nationwide welcome the fall with open arms for a multitude of reasons. Cooler days, fun holidays, and the reinstatement of some of the nation鈥檚 most popular sports. But this fall, there is a brand-new reason to be excited. The Upland High School girls’ flag football team is making waves in the community as they gear up for their inaugural season! Spearheaded by Head Coach Heather Inglima, an alumnus of Upland High, the team is set to kick off for the first time on August 12. With the CIF implementing girls鈥� flag football as a sanctioned sport just last year, the excitement surrounding this new program is palpable. 鈥淢aking history, one percent at a time,鈥� Coach Inglima proudly states, capturing the spirit and ambition of the team.
Alongside Heather on the coaching staff are Tom Inglima, Tom Canfield, and Lane Haywood. They are all committed to building a strong foundation for this year’s team and the many more that are hopeful to follow. Their primary goal for the upcoming season is to 鈥渂uild a foundation that supports the learning of the game while pushing our athletes to be successful on and off the field,鈥� says Heather. They aim to create a culture characterized by a strong work ethic and positive attitude, which will extend beyond the field and into the community. Although the team has no current record, Coach Inglima believes, 鈥渢he sky is the limit.鈥� The anticipation surrounding their potential is immense as they prepare to establish a new legacy at Upland High School.
As the first-ever girls鈥� flag football team at Upland High School, these athletes have the unique opportunity to create a lasting legacy. While team captains have yet to be officially named, many players are already demonstrating remarkable leadership qualities. 鈥淗aving great leaders keeps the team accountable and cohesive through positive communication and feedback with the coaching staff,鈥� Coach Inglima notes. Among the standout players is incoming freshman Leah Davis, who has already made a name for herself on her travel flag football team by setting records and earning all-tournament accolades. Leah鈥檚 impressive performance over the summer highlights the level of talent and determination present in this team.
As the squad embarks on this groundbreaking journey, the anticipation and support from the Upland community are very encouraging. 鈥淭he excitement to be part of the inaugural team and build a solid foundation for flag football at Upland High School is what fuels the team鈥檚 drive,鈥� says Heather. The collective celebrations, the establishment of traditions, and the anticipation of competitive gameplay all contribute to the significance of this season. As they prepare to make history, we wish the Upland High School girls’ flag football team the best of luck in their journey to greatness. Go Highlanders!
This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.