The Berkeley High School girls flag football team faced off against the Hayward High School Farmers on Friday, Oct. 4th, 2024. They won by a significant margin, ending the game with 33-6. While both teams scored touchdowns early in the first half, BHS recorded the next 27 points alone.
Coach Israel Carrero expressed some concern going into the game, saying, “I was worried about how our team was going to react, coming off two emotional games, then coming into this game … which the Farmers were number one in their division.” But he was thrilled with how his team performed. “Offense started rolling, defense started getting better, and we had our first defensive touchdown of the season. The team played fantastic today. I couldn’t be happier,” he said.
After getting their first touchdown with an extra point, BHS then attained 6 safeties for a total of 12 extra points to make it 19-6, ending the first half with the Jackets holding a strong lead.
In the second half, BHS continued to dominate the game. Quarterback Sydney Boone threw the ball from the 20 yard line to wide receiver Ahmirah McElroy-Dent at the five yard line, who ran to the endzone and made another touchdown with an extra point. They completed the route with another touchdown late in the game for a final score of 33-6.
BHS freshman McElroy-Dent described her team’s supportive nature and said, “I think they’re a great team. They act like a team, you know, a lot of support. They’re just always there for you. You know that when you’re down, when you’re hurt, they’ll always be there for you. So I say they’re a great team, like one of the best I’ve ever been on.” McElory-Dent also emphasized her role in motivating teammates, saying, “I rally up my team. Let them know that I’m here, I’m supporting them, and that they can support me as well.” This sense of unity and the positive team environment are driving forces behind their recent victories.
The team’s inclusive atmosphere has drawn many players who are new to the sport. “You don’t need any prior athletic experience to play,” BHS sophomore Evita Geisler said. “It’s an incredibly inclusive sport that welcomes everyone, and you’ll find your place on the team.”
Carrero has seen growth from several players this season. He praised Boone, stating, “She is throwing with more confidence, better than she’s ever thrown, and running like no other.”
With this third consecutive victory, BHS improved their overall record to 5-9, and their league record to 3-3. Carrero hopes the team continues this momentum. “I want them to have a memory that they can cherish for a lifetime,” he said.