On October 22, the second annual island bowl between the Alameda and Encinal varsity flag football team took place. During halftime, Encinal holds a lead, and in a clean interception, freshman Violet Yap sprints down the muddy field, dodging 5 different players, and lands in the end zone with the roar of the crowd behind her.
Yap recalls the moment clearly. “It felt really good,” she said. “Just running and seeing everyone cheering for me…I can’t describe the feeling. It feels so surreal in the moment, all my teammates surrounding me and tapping me on the head.”
Although Alameda was a tough opponent, Encinal continued soaring, pushing their win streak to 11 games. This win determined their standing in the current playoffs, which recently started, the first game being a win on 10/28 against Arroyo.“I think I did pretty okay considering that Alameda is a really good defensive team,” said Senior Jazzy Alcantar, captain of the Varsity team. “I had to get rid of the ball quickly and also make smart decisions,”
Encinal started the match strong, scoring in the first 5 minutes. Throughout the game, Encinal was able to hold onto this momentum. Junior Keianna Rayndles scored two receiving touchdowns, two extra points and one interception.
Although the Hornets put up a good fight, trading touchdowns through the entirety of the first half. During the second half, Encinal was able to pull ahead. Following the crossfield touchdown by Yap, the team carried the momentum and ended the game 36-20.
This rematch was particularly exciting for both teams. At the start of the season, Alameda high gave Encinal its first and only loss, 6-34. Encinal returned the favor on their senior night and solidified a strong win.
Encinal’s flag football varsity team went on to win their next three games–Hayward, Arroyo, and Castro Valley respectively–before finally falling to the Alameda Hornets in their third meeting of the season.
The Encinal Jets have no more scheduled.
