>> BALDWIN HIGH SCHOOL
Baldwin High School women’s flag football team has picked up a $5,000 Atlanta Falcons grant as well as a Nike credit of $3,000 for new uniforms.
Flag football head coach Tara Burney first learned of the grant from BHS Athletic Director Dexter Ricks Sr. He was required to research and prepare a budget based on the team’s prior year's safety equipment needs such as smaller helmets, and knee and elbow pads.
Burney said that while interest was good for the team in its debut year, it has exploded this year. The season is scheduled to begin in October and had over 60 players showing interest, from eighth- all the way to 12th grades.
“I’m excited about the level of interest,” Burney said, “and to have about five returning players who are ready to get on the field.”
This year, the flag football team will play in a new region against teams in nearby Bibb and Houston counties, which means they no longer have to travel all the way to Atlanta to play.
“Flag football has been a big deal in the Atlanta area for a long time,” Burney said, “but it’s actually spreading to Middle Georgia now and South Georgia soon. We’re just coming into flag football, but the schools in Atlanta have had their teams established for about three to five years now.”
The Atlanta Falcons grant will provide renewed vigor, spirit, to the team.
“We’re coming for you this year,' Burney said.
- Contributed by School & Community Relations Coordinator Eric Jones