Flag football won the IHSA Regional championship against Reavis 34 – 8 on Oct. 8. However, on Oct. 13, they fell short in the Sectional semifinal vs. Kenwood with a score of 19 – 0, ending their season. 

“We knew the game was going to be a very difficult win,” varsity corner Lila Porter ‘26 said. “We prepared as much as we could through watching film and specific play prep. Ultimately, I am really proud of my teammates because it was clear that we all tried our hardest, even though it was not the outcome we wanted.”

There were many changes to the game and team this year, Porter said. In addition to the original JV and varsity, LT added a freshman team. Also, players can rush from the one-yard line, and the clock stops every time someone goes out of bounds or when it’s an incomplete play.

“Everyone on offense wears a card on their wrist with the plays and their assigned number,” Porter said. “Then the coach or the quarterback will call a play, and everyone will look at the play card to know what to do.”

The team is graduating 13 seniors. Eleven of the current 13 seniors were on the original varsity team.
“[Seniors] Carly Granger [‘26] and Teya Magajne [‘26] have helped keep this squad upbeat and focused,” varsity head coach Meghan Hutchens said. “Anna Bigenwald [‘26] has stepped up and is our number one receiver.”
The community has supported the team by showing up on the sidelines to watch them play, Hutchens said. About 104 Lyons Football Club girls came out to watch the varsity team this season. 

“I want people to associate the team with positivity and understand the hard work that our team has put in to get where we are,” varsity defensive back Kailey McGuire ‘26 said.
Hutchens was recently recognized by the Chicago Bears as the Chicago Bear Girls Flag Football Coach of the Week by Dunkin’ Donuts, McGuire said. She was nominated by Athletic Director John Grundke.

“[Hutchens], took on the challenge of starting the program at LT,” McGuire said. “Not only does she care about how we play on the field, but she cares about us off the field and our team relationships.”
The team beat undefeated Naperville Central in overtime on Sept. 16, Porter said. Hutchens noted this as a turning point of the season.
“This year, there is a more serious aspect to the team because we know more about the game and we are more comfortable,” Porter said. “But we are still very close friends, just like last year.”
Hutchens hopes to provide opportunities during the offseason for players to gain experience and maintain skills. 

“Communication is a huge part,” Porter said. “We are always helping each other, on and off the field. Next year’s players need to have fun and work together to continue to grow the sport.”