Gateway Charter flag football team eyes first district title

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — The Gateway Charter flag football team enters the postseason with nine wins and nine shutouts.

The top-seeded Griffins are one win away from playing for a title, something the second-year program has never seen. Before the turf field and before the wins, this group found their home on a dirt field—more powder-puff than power-house.

"The first year was pretty rough. I feel like no shade, but none of us really know what we were doing. We kind of just started to have fun," said Katelyn Rosario, defensive captain for Gateway Charter flag football.

Two seasons later, that "fun" is now starring for a defense that has not allowed a single point all season.

"Our defense is wicked. I think the trust that we have in our defense all together, we're two of the captains that are on the defense, I think we have the best defense in our district. Nobody could change my mind about that," Rosario said.

This turnaround didn't happen overnight. Head Coach Shayne Morin built the program's foundation through strategic growth.

"Last year, I think we finished the season with 12 plays, you know, 12 total plays. This year on offense, we've probably run 30 to 36 different plays, so they had that base of knowledge, and we were just able to build from there," Morin said.

Now, they prepare for a shot at history.

"We love our teammates. Can't wait to put that banner up. Yeah, it's coming. For sure, it's coming. Stay tuned," said Lizy Menendez, defensive captain for Gateway Charter flag football.

The next group of football stars is already starting to see the field. Assistant Coach Erich Benton sees a bright future ahead.

"We talk about the future at Gateway Charter. I think that's the future of flag football in southwest Florida around here because of the young ones we have over here," Benton said.

If Gateway Charter wins, the Griffins will play for their first district championship against the winner of Riverdale and Lehigh.