Adelanto High School Fields High Desert’s First Official Girls Flag Football Team
ADELANTO, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Adelanto High School is making High Desert history this year with the area’s first CIF-sanctioned competitive girls flag football team, getting their home schedule off to a rousing start with a shutout victory over Indian Springs High School.
“Launching our girls flag football program is a milestone for Adelanto High School and for the High Desert. It grew from the passion of our students and the dedication of our staff,” Principal Ebony Purcell said. “Being the first in the region to play CIF flag football in a league is more than just making history; it’s about opening doors for girls in sports, building confidence and setting the standard for what’s possible.”
Led by Head Coach Eric Torres, the Saints jumped out to a quick lead that they never relinquished on their way to a 26-0 win in the August 12 home opener at Adelanto High School’s Julian Weaver Stadium.
“The energy at our opening game was incredible,” Purcell said. “With our district office dignitaries, staff, students, families, and community filling the stands and creating an electric atmosphere, it shows just how much support there is for this program.”
The Saints beat Indian Springs again on the road the following week, prevailing 14-12. Quarterback Brisa Mendoza, utility player Kalonie Mack and receivers Nyomi Sanchez, Java’Niyah Knox and Divine Flournoy have helped lead the team to a 4-3 start in its inaugural year. The Saints also reached the championship game of the season-opening Redlands Tournament.
Athletic Director Wayne Wilson said the team is a part of the San Andreas League, playing a full CIF-sanctioned schedule as well as fielding a junior varsity team. He credited the AHS staff for making this dream a reality for the players.
“Girls flag football is the brainchild of (Activities Director) Nadia Gonzalez and (Principal) Purcell,” Wilson said. “Those two ladies along with (fellow staff member) Jessica Calles deserve the credit.”
According to MaxPreps.com, the Saints have three home games remaining: Sept. 8 (Summit), Sept. 9 (Rialto) and Sept. 23 (Colton).
“This program is a point of pride for the Victor Valley Union High School District,” Superintendent Carl Coles said. “We strive to prepare students to live a life of purpose with unlimited potential, and providing new athletic and extracurricular opportunities for all students is a key component in achieving that goal. These young women have no doubt made Adelanto High and our entire district proud.”
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