Powderpuff Football

Traditionally, football has been viewed as a “man’s sport,” pitting groups of tough, rugged players against one another. But the junior and senior girls at Urbana High School took the game as their own when they battled against each other on the new sports complex on Wednesday, October 5.

Known as Powderpuff football, this event began when UHS alum Moriah Ward (class of 2011) brought the idea to the building administrative team (consisting of Dr. Taylor and assistant principals) in 2010. Faced with opposition from members of the administration, Ward fought to start the game because she was raised in a family of football lovers, and hoped the girls at the school would get the opportunity to play it themselves. She said, “A few members from the administration were reluctant at first. They thought we were a bunch of girls trying to run around in short shorts, and honestly, I was offended by that. But Ms. Ludwick fought for us, and we won!”

That year, the girls not only won the chance to play football, but Moriah’s Junior class won the game itself. The following year, the junior team took home the victory once again. But with a new turf come new traditions, as the seniors won 13-0 this year. Senior Kate Ross says, “The senior girls only had one practice before the game, but we were able to pull it together quickly and learn our positions and plays. I think we won because of our enthusiasm, skill, and teamwork.”

Lateshia Dove, senior and quarterback for the Powderpuff team, agreed with Ross, adding, “My favorite part would have to be playing offense and running the ball, as well as hearing my name getting announced over the intercom. Oh yeah, and winning, of course!”

And although the junior girls didn’t score a touchdown, they came very close and put up a good fight. Junior Kayla Estes said, “The most memorable play was definitely when Ellen [Beverly] made it all the way across the field with the ball, until she realized that her flag had fallen off on its own. The play still counted, even though we didn’t score the touchdown afterwards.”

But Beverly wasn’t fazed by this unfortunate loss. She said, “We wanted to win to represent the previous junior class victories, but the seniors were more experienced, since many of them had played last year. It was still super fun no matter what!”

Whichever class wins, both the junior and senior girls know that the game is about building teamwork and breaking social norms, not just racking up the most points. Ward seems to be happy with the continuation of her project, saying, “I’m glad Powderpuff has carried on. It’s a great way for the classes to bond, and perfect for all my female football lovers!”