In February, Highland Park High School's gymnasium became a hub for fostering young female athletes' interest in football. The Park District of Highland Park collaborated with the school's football programs to organize a free flag football clinic on Monday, February 17th. This initiative aimed to introduce the sport to younger girls and provide them with an early taste of high school-level competition. With the support of experienced student-athletes and enthusiastic organizers, the event attracted around 40 participants. The introduction of high school girls' flag football under the IHSA umbrella last fall has further fueled this growing interest, with Highland Park being one of approximately 200 teams across the state participating in the inaugural season.

The clinic provided a unique opportunity for young girls to engage in drills and scrimmages led by seasoned players from the Giants team. One of the key figures at the event was junior Emery Duenow, who actively guided groups of participants through various activities. The involvement of senior Lucy Compher, a first-time football player herself, added significance to the day. She emphasized the importance of representing the program and encouraging the next generation of female athletes. “It’s crucial for us to show these girls that there are opportunities available to them,” she remarked, highlighting the event's role in empowering young athletes.

The community aspect of the sport has grown stronger this year, thanks in part to events like this clinic. Lydia Rowe, another Giants player, noted how such gatherings help build a sense of camaraderie and inspire younger players to embrace new challenges. The clinic not only introduced the fundamentals of flag football but also fostered a supportive environment where young athletes could thrive. The enthusiasm and dedication of both the mentors and participants underscored the positive impact of promoting sports among young girls.

The event concluded with a shared sense of accomplishment and excitement for the future of girls' flag football. The clinic served as a platform for building bridges between current high school players and aspiring young athletes. By offering hands-on experience and mentorship, the organizers hope to continue nurturing the growth of the sport and inspire more girls to join the ranks of competitive football players. The success of this initiative reflects the broader trend of expanding opportunities for female athletes in traditionally male-dominated sports.