On August 22nd, the Lompoc Flag Football team played their first home game of the season against Hueneme High School. The energy was high as the Braves warmed up, as everyone was eagerly anticipating the game. They would be playing on their own turf for the first time since their inaugural season last year. Lompoc’s JV team was first up, and captains Audrina Arango, Jacklyn Stevenson, and Indigo Partridge were tasked with uniting the team and keeping spirits up.
The Braves gave a valiant effort, but could not score a touchdown in the first half. Hueneme responded with a touchdown, although they were not able to clinch the extra point. Hueneme was ahead and the score was now 0-6. However, the Braves did give in to not admit defeat. It was still either team’s game; one touchdown would decide the outcome.
Lompoc kept their energy high and stayed positive even though Hueneme was on offense with only a couple minutes left of play time. Then, with a crucial interception, defensive linebacker Indigo Partridge ran the ball all the way into the endzone for a pick six with only one minute and six seconds on the clock. The final score was 7 to 6 after quarterback Jacklyn Stevenson connected a pass to London Wingate for the extra point that would secure Lompoc’s win over Hueneme.
The Varsity game was similarly successful. The players finally got to show off for their family and friends at home, and they did not disappoint. Quarterback Tara Terrones threw touchdown after touchdown and racked up points against Hueneme. In a perfectly executed trick play, the football was pitched to wide receiver Mia Jansen and thrown into the endzone for a touchdown. Jansen commented on the success of the night: “I was really excited, it was my first ever touchdown pass. I was happy all of our program’s hard work was paying off.”
Overall, Lompoc’s first win at their home field was really special for the players. It set a good tone for the rest of the upcoming season and showed everyone that Lompoc flag football is a serious program and are ready to take on their league. Go Braves!
