Delsea’s Flag Football Team Makes History with First-Ever Win
Delsea Regional High School’s athletic department has a rich history of success, particularly in football. The Crusaders have won 16 sectional championships, second only to Paulsboro for all-time South Jersey titles. However, until this spring, Delsea had never fielded a flag football team.
That all changed on a historic night in Franklinville, as the Crusaders hosted their first-ever home flag football game against Millville. Delsea seized the opportunity, scoring 22 unanswered first-half points en route to a 22-0 victory.
Despite the differences between traditional football and flag football, the sense of pride and accomplishment was just as significant for the Crusaders.
A New Era of Athleticism
Flag football is a growing sport in New Jersey, with both Millville and Delsea fielding first-year programs this year. Approximately half of the 26-team West Jersey Football League launched their programs last spring, while teams in North Jersey and the Shore Conference are in their third year.
The sport has gained significant support from the National Football League, with the Eagles, Jets, and Giants sponsoring programs across the state. As a result, flag football is expected to achieve full status across New Jersey in the near future.
Building on a Legacy of Success
For the Delsea players, the opportunity to create a new legacy was a major motivator.
“It feels good to have a flag team,” said freshman Kaiah Braxton. “It feels like we can follow the success the boys have always had.”
Making History
Emma Natalie, a sophomore quarterback, etched her name in Delsea’s history books by scoring the first touchdown in the program’s history, a 45-yard keeper down the left sideline. Braxton added touchdown runs of 10 and three yards, while both players also converted two-point conversions.
“This is really big, especially getting our first win,” Braxton said. “We are trying really hard at practice. It feels good to make it pay off.”
Looking to the Future
The victory was a significant step forward for the Delsea flag football program, but the players are already looking to the future.
“This is really important because I feel like we can make history with our school,” said Millville freshman Danielle Olinda. “This is our first year ever. I know that next year is going to be even better, depending on how this year goes. Even more girls will be motivated to play.”
With its strong tradition in football and the growing popularity of flag football, Delsea is well-positioned to continue its winning ways on the gridiron.