Aliso Flag Football has earned the attention of Orange County throughout the program’s existence, and for good reason. The team currently has an awe-inspiring 23-4 record this season, and they dominated the South Coast League going undefeated throughout league play.
They competed in their last league game on Oct. 15 against El Toro High School, earning a 24-20 victory over the Bulls. The game was close, but the collective effort, strategy and passion allowed the Wolverines to win.
Adding to the already highly talented program that is Aliso’s Flag Football team, there was an influx of talent this year that helped to keep them at an elite level.
Alaina Villa (12) said, “Flag has definitely affected me as an athlete because it gave me the kindest and closest team I’ve ever been a part of. It has taught me what a good environment and support system should look like.”
Competing as both the slot receiver and corner, Villa is currently ranked 36th in the nation in interceptions and 23 total touchdowns just this season. Playing soccer alongside flag football, her speed and strategy bring a game-changing aspect to the team.
“I enjoy the different routes I get to run and the complex plays I get to be a part of while playing slot receiver. What I love about playing [corner] is the ability to make big plays which keeps us up in the game,” adds Villa.
The seniors not only contribute to the in-game victories taken by the Wolverines but more importantly, they contribute to victories in their team’s culture. Senior Night was held on Oct. 16, celebrating all they have accomplished at Aliso.
Captain Sienna Stand (12) said, “I attribute our success to how well we all work together as a team… We all immediately clicked. We are all very selfless people and are always happy for each other’s accomplishments… We hold each other accountable during practices and games to ensure everyone is giving 100% of their effort.”
This accountability and selflessness help them win games consistently such as earning an undefeated record in the South Coast League. Her contribution to the program is evident not only in her plays on the field but also in her leadership as a captain alongside Sloan Lorenzo (11).
“As a captain, I like to lead by example. It’s important for my teammates to see a leader as someone who shows good attitude, effort and integrity both on and off the field,” Stand said.
Going into CIF after their wild success in the league, the girls plan to continue that trend, prolonging their season as long as possible. All of their hard work and dedication to the growing program will climax in the next few weeks.
Stand adds, “Going into CIF, I think we need to keep up what we have been doing. Our hard work has already got us a league title this season, and if we continue that throughout playoffs, then we will be set up for success. The team has been training since June, so we need to make sure our energy and efforts don’t slip before [playoffs] start.”
The Wolverines will compete in their first CIF game on Tuesday, Oct 22.
