The Palisades Pumas secured their third straight Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools girls flag football championship on Thursday, shutting out Butler 13-0 in a dominant display that left little doubt about their supremacy.
The victory comes as the N.C. High School Athletic Association has officially sanctioned flag football, with the inaugural season set to kick off this fall, a move that promises expanded competition and greater recognition for the sport across the state.
A New Era for Girls Flag Football
Head coach Reggie Cespedes praised the team's execution, highlighting the standout performance of MVP Miracle Moore, who contributed both a touchdown and a key interception during the game.
Cespedes noted that while the road ahead will grow tougher as more programs embrace the sport, the Pumas are eager to meet the challenge and continue building on their recent success.
The championship game was part of a broader tournament that featured four finalists — Palisades, Butler, Phillip O. Berry, and Rocky River — with Berry edging Rocky River 6-0 in the semifinals and Butler claiming third place with a 20-8 win over Rocky River.
The Carolina Panthers and the David & Nicole Tepper Foundation have been instrumental in promoting the league, with the foundation pledging a $1 million commitment to support its growth.
Miracle Moore reflected on the significance of the three-peat, emphasizing that hard work and dedication have been the cornerstones of their sustained excellence.