Vanguard College Preparatory School in Waco is set to make history by fielding the first girls’ flag football team in the region, the Lady Vikings. The announcement comes as the sport is experiencing a surge in popularity, with participation numbers climbing toward six hundred thousand nationwide.
A Milestone Tournament
The Lady Vikings will open their season at HOT Soccer Fields, facing St. Joseph High School from Victoria, St. Joseph Catholic School in Bryan, and The Christian School at Castle Hills. Coach Justin Derington notes that this tournament marks the first organized flag football competition for a school in the area, reflecting the rapid expansion of the sport since TAPPS introduced girls’ flag football earlier this year.
The team, composed of nine ninth‑graders and two incoming tenth‑graders, has been training intensively. Coach Derington says the players have exceeded his expectations, demonstrating dedication that rivals any traditional program. Their preparation underscores a broader cultural shift toward giving young women a platform to compete and lead.
Voices of the Team
Incoming ninth‑grader Emmy Barber expressed excitement about inspiring younger players and experiencing the camaraderie of a new sport. Emily Howard, also an incoming ninth‑grader, highlighted the joy of playing flag football with friends and joining a community that celebrates female athletes. Natalie Hernandez and Ashley, both members of the squad, echoed the sentiment, noting how the emerging trend is reshaping perceptions of girls in athletics.
Empowerment Through Sport
Beyond the field, Coach Derington emphasizes that flag football offers more than competition; it builds confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. By empowering young women through sport, Vanguard aims to foster a generation that sees leadership and physical activity as intertwined.