The Mission Bay flag football team has gotten off to yet another impressive start punctuated by a dominating 42-0 shutout at home over Canyon Hills on Monday.
Just like in 2023, the Bucs have started the season with a solid 7-2 record outscoring its opponents 264 to 98 so far.
Buccaneers senior QB Mary Reger threw for multiple touchdowns against Canyon Hills. PHOTOS BY STEVE SIDELL
The team got all-around great performances led by the efforts of co-captain Mary Reger who excelled by throwing multiple touchdowns and zero interceptions. Freshman sensation Valerie Young also stood out offensively in the running and passing game while the defense grabbed multiple interceptions with co-captain Iris Brogan turning one of those into a pick-six.
“They played with heart and I’m so proud of all of them,” said head coach Heather Nellis.
Mission Bay lost four seniors from last season. The majority of the roster is filled with juniors and sophomores, with only one senior. That has not slowed the team down in any way as it looks to make another deep run after having reached the semifinals last year.
“I think what people don’t realize is how great the middle school programs have been,” Nellis added. “We’ve had tremendous talent come in with a real thirst for wanting to play this sport. We’re proud of the girls we have from top to bottom.”
Among the other contributors to Mission Bay’s success is co-captain Alegra Camacho who is a big contributor having led the team in yards and receptionists last season, which earned her First Team All-League honors alongside Reger and Brogan.
“It’s just been great to see the girls show so much heart and meet the challenges,” said Nellis. “I’m so thankful for the support system from the administration to the families. My junior varsity coach, Chrissy Niedzwiecki-Preston, has done a great job and stepped up.”
Niedzwiecki-Preston also serves as defensive coordinator for the varsity team. Mission Bay plays in City League and has played a few more games than most of its competition thanks to having already taken part in tournament play. The Bucs have 11 games remaining in the regular season with four at home. Mission Bay finishes on the road against Clairemont on Nov. 14.
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