by Boladale Erogbogbo (’23) | April 8, 2022
Saint Francis has started off its second semester strong. Freshmen and sophomores are continuing to build community while juniors and seniors are preparing themselves for their future lives as both college applications and acceptances approach. Although overwhelming academic pressure sits firmly in the back of every Lancer’s mind, the upperclassmen girls have made the most of the semester with the Lady Lancer Bowl, a flag football game between junior and senior girls.
Having practiced for a week and a half during second lunch, the junior and senior girls faced off for the game on Wednesday, March 29. While juniors battled valiantly, the game ended 33-19 with the seniors prevailing.
Although they lost, the juniors took home plenty of memories, one highlight being a touchdown by Maile Marinchak (’23). “Playing was the most fun. Hearing all your friends cheering you on was a really good experience. I had the final touchdown of the game, and all the players and coaches stormed the field even though we lost,” she said.
Despite the defeat, Marinchak and her teammates took pride in the struggles and triumphs of the game until the final culmination of their joy with her stellar play.
At the game, junior and senior varsity football players offered their valuable experiences, insight, and expertise as coaches on the sidelines. One of the junior defensive coaches, varsity wide receiver and defensive back Andrew Carrasquillo (’23), reflected on his experience at the Bowl: “I liked the chance to coach and share my love of football with others. It was pretty hype, and I enjoyed the chance to share my defensive knowledge with my teammates.” Though he wanted the chance to practice more often with flags, Carrasquillo noted his time during Lancer Bowl was well spent and felt that the people around him made it most enjoyable.
Brooke McDermott (’23), a player on Carrasquillo’s team, spoke about how fun it was to practice with her friends each day: “I did it because I thought it would be fun. It was hard for the coaches to get everyone in, but it was so fun being out there. And I had everyone sign my shirt.” McDermott also felt confident she would return next year for a redemptive victory against the Class of 2024.
Ultimately, the Lady Lancer Bowl was well worth it. It allowed the Lancer football players to share their athletic expertise with the Saint Francis community and brought together countless students. It allowed friends to build memories on the field in a way they may not have been able to before. All the while, it allowed players and coaches to make the most of the time they had on campus.
