The Central Kitsap High School Girls Varsity Flag Football team opened their season on December 9 with two challenging games, facing Klahowya Secondary School and Olympic High School. Despite tough opponents and rainy weather, CKHS showed resilience, skills, and determination throughout the night.

First Game: Central Kitsap High School vs. Klahowya Secondary School

KSS came out strong, with Bailey Wrataric (#24) scoring an early touchdown, followed by Macayla Wrataric (#22) adding another with a 2-point conversion. CKHS responded with a touchdown from Skyler Freeman(#12), keeping the game close. The game quickly turned into a back-and-forth battle, with both teams recording key interceptions.

“I thought we did some good things,” CKHS Girls Flag Football Head Coach Zachary Brown said. “ We certainly have room to grow, and that’s fine. We dropped a lot of passes last night and that’s on me as a coach. I need to help them be prepared for tough situations, like catching in the rain.”

KSS continued to apply pressure with Kennasyn Persall(#10) scoring another touchdown. CKHS remained competitive, moving the ball effectively and showing strong teamwork. Defensive plays kept the game close until the last moments, but KSS maintained their lead finishing the game with a final score of 26-18 Klahowya.

“What I liked most was how well the players communicated,” Brown said. “Even when something went wrong, they immediately talk to each other to fix it without waiting for the coaches. That show shows they’re holding each other accountable and learning to work as a team.”

Despite the loss, CKHS gained valuable experience to carry into the second game. Players learned to adjust well under pressure  and support each other on every play. The lessons from this match-up set the stage for the team’s performance against OHS.

Second Game: Central Kitsap High School vs. Olympic High School

The second game opened with OHS scoring a touchdown from player #29 and a completed 1-point conversion. CKHS answered on the next drive, with Veronica Hensman (#8) scoring a touchdown and a 1-point attempt. Freeman (#12) later added another touchdown followed by another successful 1- point conversion giving CKHS a solid lead.

“For our first time playing at a high pace, it was actually pretty good,” senior wide receiver Erin Kibbee said.  “We ended up beating Olympic [High School]. We did lose to Klahowya [Secondary school], but it’s okay. We’ll get them back.”

CKHS maintained strong defensive pressure, limiting OHS’ offense. The players communicated effectively, staying focused on each play and supporting one another. Hensman (#8) and Freeman (#12), made key plays that helped CKHS hold onto the lead.

“In the second half, we simplified,” Brown said. “The weather was bad, so we just handed the ball to our best players, Sky [Freeman] and Olivia Keane, and let them make plays. Sometimes you just have to trust your players and let them carry the team.”

CKHS finished strong, keeping OHS from scoring again in the final minutes. The game ended with a final score of 14-7 CKHS, giving the team their first win of the season. Players celebrated their teamwork and focus, building confidence for the games ahead.

“I would say we need to lock in on our defense a bit more,” Kibbee said. “Some plays against Klahowya, they ran right through us. We just have to watch where the ball is going, and don’t focus on the person; focus on the ball.”

The doubleheader gave CKHS valuable experience in a first win to build on. The team showed strong effort, communication, and resilience in both match-ups. With the season just beginning, CKHS prepares for the possible challenges ahead.