This past week, the RASG Hebrew Academy Varsity Girls’ Flag Football team participated in a preseason tournament hosted by Hialeah Gardens High School, where they emerged undefeated with a win and two ties. The tournament helped the Lady Warriors identify areas of improvement for the season to come.
“I feel like this is a really good opportunity for our team to get out and play before the actual season begins. It’s been a long time coming that the Girls’ Flag Football team has been recognized by the school,” said co-captain Sarina Abramowitz (12th), the starting quarterback of the Lady Warriors since the 7th grade. “The fact that this is before our actual season is a good opportunity for the new girls to get used to the game and for all of the returning players to know what the rest of the season will be like.”
The offense got off to a rough start during the first game, but by the second game they got back into playing at their usual, elevated level.
“Although the offense was a little slow during the first game, the second game was great. Our confidence was phenomenal in the second game and we scored two great touchdowns,” Abramowitz said. “The offense definitely has a lot to improve on before our season begins, but now we know exactly what we need to work on. I know it’ll be a great season for the team, and a memorable last season for me.”
The Lady Warriors’ defense acts as the anchor of their team. Co-Captain Hadassah Bixon (10th) is very confident in their skill level.
“We have a really strong defense. We know how to stop the opposing team. Nobody can score on us,” Bixon said.
The tournament featured schools from all over Miami, but Hebrew Academy was the only private Jewish school participating.
“Being the only private Jewish school in the tournament, walking onto the field made me so nervous,” said third year player Yael Bister (9th). “But when we started playing our game, all of the nerves went away.”
Players say they now feel ready for the season to come.
“It’s a great opportunity for the team to get along and communicate before the season starts. I’m excited for this to be the first game of my final season,” said Co-Captain Florencia Chami (12th) who is entering her 6th season as a member of the team.
“I think today was a great chance for the veteran players to pick up right where they left off last year, while providing the new players with game speed experience at no risk,” said Coach Rob Erickson. “The team showed glimpses of greatness with a stout defense leading the way. All in all, it was an encouraging day and amazing experience as not only a team, but as we say, family.”
The Lady Warriors Varsity Flag Football team’s regular season kicks off this upcoming Tuesday with a game against Miami Central Senior High School.
By: Michal Cohen (11th grade)
