A Milestone Celebration
The Wachusett Regional High School girls' flag football team gathered on a crisp May evening to honor five seniors during their second Senior Night, an event made even more special by the first-ever National Letter of Intent signings for the program.
Since the club's inception in 2024 with just nine participants, the team has swelled to more than 40 athletes, reflecting a surge in interest for the emerging sport across Central Massachusetts.
Among those seniors, Maggie Jennings made history as the first player from the Central Mass. region to earn an athletic scholarship for women's flag football, committing to Manhattan University.
Co‑captains Julia Daly and Jennings have posted eye‑catching statistics this spring, anchoring a defense that has helped the team climb to second place in its conference with a 12‑2 record.
Flag football is slated to debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, and local officials see the sport as a potential addition to the MIAA’s sanctioned offerings, a prospect that could further boost participation.
The Wachusett squad is now eyeing a championship showdown scheduled for June 11 at Merrimack College, after playoff action begins on June 4.
The celebration also featured New England Patriots mascot Pat the Patriot and several cheerleaders, underscoring community support for the growing program.