Sparkman splits double header with a memorable finish
HARVEST – Sparkman flag football had a difficult matchup this week. They took on Decatur High School and Grissom High School on Tuesday Sept. 16. The girls fumbled it against Decatur 18-6 but were able to take down Grissom 6-0 In the Decatur game, the girls struggled, both teams came into the game undefeated, so the pressure was high on both sides. Sparkman had home-field advantage and the energy was high. But from the first play, the girls had too many unforced errors to be able to get a leg up on their opponents. A few top players, though, proved to be unstoppable. Senior center Claire Wulff was able to finesse around the defense and score a touchdown, in hopes of keeping the team in the game. “I was excited to score my first touchdown of the season, but honestly I think as a whole, we all could have played better. We got in our own heads and lost the game mentally, before we ever lost it physically. I am proud that we were able to pick our heads up for the second game, but overall we have a lot to improve in the mental aspect of the game,” Wulff said.
In the end, the girls had to put the loss behind them and get in a better mental headspace for the second game of the night.
Against Grissom, the girls shined. They took the break to reflect on their mistakes, collect their thoughts and come back with a winning mindset. Senior linebacker Ava Solley was able to get two interceptions, helping provide a leg up for the offensive line. “My picks against Decatur were easy to spot. They were followed up by fantastic teamwork from the defensive line because they provided great blocks,” Solley said.
Sophomore Maggie VanDeWynckel caught the winning touchdown against Grissom, but not the usual way. VanDeWynckel caught the ball just inside the endzone with her legs. “It was definitely really unexpected but I’m glad we got the touchdown in order to win the game,” VanDeWynckel said.
Though it was an unusual ending, the girls were thankful for a funny memory to end the night, leaving everyone in a good mood as they start preparing to play Columbia, Vestavia Hills and Westminster High School next week.
