Aliso Niguel’s first ever flag football team has seen much success in their newfound program.
The girls started off strong with a win against Capistrano Valley High School in August and have continued their winning streak thus far.
When asked what goals the team have, Coach Baldwin stated, “Our goals this year are to keep getting better everyday, win a league championship and win the end of the season CIF tournament.”
This is a great goal because it would be very special if Aliso’s first ever flag football team won the very first CIF title. Aliso students look forward to cheer on their girls on the field in support of their wonderful season.
The season is looking very bright, as Coach Baldwin says, “The season could not be going any better. We are 16-2 overall, 10-1 in league with three league games left to play. We are hoping to clinch a share of the league title on Oct. 12 at home and clinch outright on Oct. 24.”
Baldwin also excitedly states, “I love coaching this team. They are such a great group of girls. They work incredibly hard but I’m most proud of the people they are and how they represent themselves and Aliso Niguel every day.”
The love for the team Baldwin has is admirable. It takes a passionate coach as well as a hardworking team to have this much success the first time around.
When asked about the most exciting part of coaching, Baldwin explains, “it is being the one responsible for guiding your players in reaching their goals. I love the challenge in finding ways to continue to be better for them and help them grow on and off the field. As a coach, nothing compares to seeing your players have fun, love what they do, really believe in themselves and reach their goals.”
Coupled with Baldwin’s enthusiasm are the favorite moments of the season.
“There are quite a few favorites moments for me. The best moment so far would be winning the Woman of Will tournament.”
For the first tournament for girls flag football, Aliso girls came up on top. It is very impressive considering our girls just started playing together and this is the first ever flag football team ever seen at Aliso.
“We really needed everybody for that tournament. I thought all of our players did an outstanding job when their number was called and we really came together,” concluded Baldwin.
Gigi Ganje (12) shares, “I’m having an amazing time, it’s such a fun sport and my teammates make it even more fun. I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to play this my last year of high school.”
Flag football continues to be one of the most successful programs at Aliso and the girls seem to love it just as much as their fans do.
