By Caitlin Kelly
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Football is typically recognized as a “man’s sport,” but on Sept. 9, girls from all grade levels broke the stereotype and engaged in flag football competitions for the second ever MHS Powderpuff football event. All profits from the event will benefit the Class of 2012.
“We knew that this was a huge success (last year) and people were already asking about it (this year),” said Senior Class Adviser Katrina Abes of the senior class’ decision to organize the event again.
Since many students were expecting a repeat of last year’s successful event, it was put together despite the fact that only a month was given to organize. “We had short notice, but then it just ended up falling together,” said Powderpuff Chairperson Alyssa Vallesteros.
Most aspects of the event were the same, though there was a noticeable difference. “It’s different because we didn’t have male cheerleaders this year … Because we wanted them to be able to watch the game and we also wanted them to be able to help coach,” said Vallesteros.
Despite those changes, there was a large turnout from every class. In game one, the freshmen and the juniors went head to head and the juniors came out on top with a score of 22-8. In the second game, the sophomores just scraped by with a win against the seniors with a score of 6-0. “This is a really big money maker for the seniors, so even though the seniors lost the game, they really won in the end because all of this is raised for them,” said Abes.
In the championship match, the juniors took the overall title for the second year in a row with a score of 7-0. “I’m proud of the girls, they all worked hard. Everybody gave it 100 percent and it was a good win, it shows their determination and that they can do a lot,” said Senior Trent Cole, Junior Class Coach.
Despite the outcome of the games though, the different classes were happy to support their school. “Everyone had fun, everyone tried, so it doesn’t really matter who wins or loses, we’re just here to have fun and support seniors,” said Junior Cassandra Passmore, a player.
There were also benefits for players beyond the fundraising aspect. “It’s also a good opportunity for the girls that don’t get to play sports, for the girls who don’t get to be on the field, to have crowds like this,” said Powderpuff Chairperson Senior Elizabeth Gustafson.
$7,900 was raised for the class of 2012, and the proceeds will go towards graduation at Aloha Stadium.
