No matter how hot a team starts, it can all come crashing down once league play begins.
Luckily for the West Ranch and Hart girls flag football teams, that was not the case last week, as they began play in the four-team Foothill League that includes Valencia and Vasquez.
Both teams won their first two league matchups, as the Hawks improved to 7-4 overall and the Wildcats moved to 6-2.
The growing pains have been minimal so far for the Hawks and Wildcats as they establish their brand-new programs.
West Ranch burst into Foothill League play with decisive wins over Vasquez 31-6 and Valencia 26-6.
West Ranch quarterback Kara Carnes throws to wide receiver Grace Manning during a game against Valencia. (Courtesy of West Ranch athletics)
Wildcats wide receiver Grace Manning recorded five catches and two touchdowns against Vasquez. Quarterback Kara Carnes threw for four touchdowns against Valencia.
“We can say we’ve exceeded our expectations,” said West Ranch head coach Mark Hornberger. “The girls are playing hard, tough and are learning as each day goes. There are a lot of phenomenal and talented players in the Foothill League. Valencia has some gritty girls, Hart has come off strong and Vasquez has some great players. We’re not taking anything for granted.”
Hart began league play with a 33-6 win over Valencia and it shut out Vasquez 20-0.
Hawks wide receiver Natalie Williams had five catches for 78 yards and two touchdowns against the Vikings. Quarterback Zoey Guzman threw for 246 yards and three touchdowns against the Mustangs.
The Wildcats and the Hawks are set to meet for the first time this season on Wednesday at 3:30 at West Ranch.
“The level we’ve been playing at really shows the amount of depth on our roster,” said Hart head coach Josh Masmela. “It’s been a lot of trial and error and understanding this league is full of first-time programs. We’re definitely looking forward to the West Ranch game. It’s turning out to look like it will be a battle for the Foothill League title.”
The Wildcats were scheduled to face Vasquez on Monday at 3:30 p.m. and West Ranch was set to be at Valencia on Monday at 6:30 p.m.
Foothill League standings as of Sunday:
Hart 7-4 (2-0)
West Ranch 6-2 (2-0)
Vasquez 3-5 (0-2)
Valencia 3-10 (0-2)
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