The Gresham flag football team entered the 2026 Girls Flag Football State Championships with a modest seed but left with a story of perseverance, highlighted by a dramatic comeback and senior leadership.
A Comeback That Defined the Season
In the consolation bracket, the squad faced a 14‑13 deficit against Thurston before flipping the script. A 72‑yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Aniyah Daebney‑Lomax to junior receiver Jadelynn Chisley swung the momentum, sealing a 20‑14 victory. The drive was set up by a timely interception in the end zone by freshman corner Lute Falepapalangi, who gave the team the spark it needed.
The run was not without setbacks. Earlier, Gresham fell to top‑seeded Amity 13‑8 in the Elite Eight, a loss that tested the team’s resolve. Still, the experience of navigating a tight playoff field added depth to a roster that would later confront a 51‑13 defeat at the hands of Central Christian, finishing sixth overall.
Senior Leadership and the Road Ahead
Coach Adam Meyer praised the senior class for delivering a season that blended youthful vigor with seasoned poise, noting that the campaign provided a valuable foundation for the players moving forward. The bond forged on the field, he said, will linger long after the final whistle.
Beyond the scoreboard, the team’s resilience highlighted a growing culture of competitiveness in Gresham’s flag football program, promising brighter days as the next generation steps onto the field.