GALT, CA (MPG) - The ever-popular sport of girls’ flag football continues to gain momentum, and the Liberty Ranch Hawks are riding that wave into what promises to be an exciting 2025 season. The defending league champions faced their first test Monday night against powerhouse Manteca High School in a traditional foundation game that served as a challenging warmup for the season ahead.

Manteca proved why it has such an exceptional record, shutting out the Hawks while scoring four times in the non-league contest. Though the final score wasn’t what Liberty Ranch had hoped for, the game provided valuable experience against top-tier competition.

“The girls played hard for their first game,” said Head Coach Andy Peterson. “Lots of good things on the field Monday night and lots to get better at.”

The Hawks showcased some of the new elements added to girls’ flag football this year, including the introduction of punting under revised CIF rules. Quarterback Kamryn Blevins handled punting duties for Liberty Ranch, demonstrating the versatility that will be crucial in the team’s quest to repeat as league champions.

This year’s squad faces unique challenges and opportunities. With 20 freshmen and just four seniors, the Hawks are building for both the present and future. The program’s growth is evident in Liberty Ranch’s ability to field both JV and varsity teams for the first time.

“We have a very young program with 20 freshmen and four seniors looking forward to a challenge of an extremely difficult preseason schedule and preparing for league and hopefully playoff action,” Peterson explained.

The popularity of girls’ flag football continues to surge, with increasing participation numbers allowing programs like Liberty Ranch to expand their offerings. The Hawks’ ability to support two teams reflects both the sport’s growth and the school’s commitment to providing opportunities for all interested athletes.

Liberty Ranch will have little time to dwell on Monday’s result, as its official season opener looms Thursday, Aug. 21 against Consumnes Oaks High School in Elk Grove. The Hawks will then play their first home game on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 1 p.m. against Vacaville.

With a demanding preseason schedule designed to prepare them for league play and potential playoff action, the young Hawks squad will be tested early and often. If their championship pedigree and growing program depth are any indication, Liberty Ranch is ready to meet those challenges head-on as it defends its league title.