Cambridge’s Female Football Fans Will Soon Take the Field as Players

Sports like football, basketball and baseball have been active at the school since its birth 10 years ago.  

This school year, a new sport is welcomed to the list: girls’ flag football, whose season began Sept. 27. 

The Fulton County Department of Athletics decided to create a girl’s flag football program last school year; however, due to the pandemic, its formation was delayed until now. 

Math teacher and track and field coach Michael Matthews will coach the team. He was the offensive lineman coach for the boys’ football team three years ago. 

“I believe that my experience and my love towards the game can definitely benefit the team to go far in the season,” said Matthews, who will work alongside business education teacher and former football coach Russell Gray “rip the girls in shape.” 

Tryouts were Sept. 20 and 21. Everyone who tried out secured a spot on the team.  

The season ends Nov. 17. The team will have a month to practice before its first two games against Johns Creek and Northview on Oct. 27 at the latter school’s stadium. 

The season is comprised of seven games and a three-round playoff, include a state championship tournament at Georgia State University’s Center Parc Stadium.  

Before tryouts, senior Savanna Depriest said she was excited that the school was starting a flag football team.  

“I always was a sporty person, and football is something that I love to do,” said Depriest, who plays varsity softball.   

“I hope I make the team and play quarterback,” she said.   

Senior Paige Blumbek’s said football is one of her favorite sports and that she is excited that now she “can play it and actually compete and score touchdowns.”