Women get a handle on flag football 7s

(GCFFA): The women’s flag football league, organized by the Grand Cayman Flag Football Association, kicked off this past Saturday at the Camana Bay Sports Field with a couple of friendly games. Rookies and veterans alike started off the season by taking part in an open scrimmage, where players were split into teams and worked to drive down the field with athletes that could very well be their archrivals come next week. The open game not only served as an opportunity for ladies new to the sport  to get some firsthand experience, but it was a chance for all competitors and coaches to get clarification on the new rules of the 7 vs 7 game. 

Rookie player, Kristen Watler-Miller stated, “The pre-season games were an excellent idea to give new players like myself an idea of what to expect during the regular season. It was a non-intimidating atmosphere that allowed us to become more familiar and confident with the format of the game, so that we will be better prepared for when the season starts. It was very much appreciated and now I’m even more excited for the season to start!”

The late morning, 20 minute-long exhibition games saw the Domino’s Pizza Wolverines take on the Androgroup Killa-Panthers on Field 1, and the Hammerheads Lady Sharks battle the Lone Star Jager Monsters on Field 2, as the newly formed Pythons looked on. The Wolverines defeated the Killa-Panthers 12-0, while the Lady Sharks also came out on top, beating the Monsters 12-0.

 With the introduction of shadow blocking, more players on the field and a larger playing field, the new 7 vs. 7 format proved to be very exciting, and it will be interesting to see how each team tackles the new challenges throughout the 2011 season.

 Seasoned player Becky Coe stated, “It was a lot of fun to play the first 7 vs 7 game without having to worry about the score board. Some of these ‘rookies’ are more than ready to take on the vets!”

The official season will begin Saturday, July 9th 2011, with games running from 10:00 am till 12:00 pm at the Camana Bay Field. All flag football enthusiasts, or anyone interested in learning more about the game, are encouraged to come out and enjoy the friendly competition.