Girls Flag Football Returns to Chandler School
This spring, Chandler proudly welcomed back Girls Flag Football, a program revived thanks to the initiative of Athletics Director Bill Anderson and the support of Coach Oscar Lugo, who also chairs the Spanish Department.
After years of absence, the return of girls’ flag football marks a pivotal shift in Chandler’s spring sports lineup. The decision to bring it back stemmed from growing interest and increased participation across our partner schools, making the timing right for Chandler to rejoin the league.
This year, girls were offered the opportunity to join the flag football team—many of whom enthusiastically accepted. Under the leadership of Coach Lugo, the team came together quickly. “They only had a few days of practice, but they practiced before school and during lunch, as they were incredibly committed,” noted Lugo.
The team joined a competitive league that includes High Point, Mayfield, Polytechnic, Westridge, and Clairbourn, making for a six-school rotation of spirited games. Despite the short season, the revival of the program has already made a strong impression, both in terms of student engagement and school pride. Chandler won all four games in the tournament!
A standout in the program’s resurgence has been eighth grader Simone Cavic ‘27, who was instrumental in getting the team off the ground. “I called athletic directors from other schools myself to get matches on the schedule,” said Cavic. “I’m really proud of what my teammates and I achieved—we worked really hard, and I’m excited to be part of the team again next year.” Anderson described her as “a force to be reckoned with” both on and off the field.
Looking ahead, the Athletics Department plans to continue offering Girls Flag Football in the 2025–2026 school year, building on this year’s success. “We’re seeing momentum we haven’t seen in years,” said Anderson. “There’s real talent and interest among our middle school girls, and we’re excited to keep growing the program.”
The return of Girls Flag Football is more than just a new option—it’s a celebration of choice, inclusion, and the evolving spirit of Chandler athletics.
