Alexander flag football coach Jerlisa Taylor said she’s focused on building on the progress her team made in its inaugural season last year.
The Lady Cougars return a total of 18 of their 34 players in the program at the JV and varsity levels, and that experience is showing.
Alexander is off to a 6-1 start with wins against rivals Douglas County and New Manchester.
“As a young program, our primary goals are to develop strong team chemistry, improve our fundamentals, and compete for a spot in the playoffs,” Taylor said. “We also want to foster a positive culture on and off the field, emphasizing leadership and sportsmanship.”
The Lady Cougars are led by six upperclassmen, including seniors Aubree McAdams (WR/DB), Rachel Porter (QB), A’Nylah Futch (Safety/DB) and Juliette Pedrera (RB/WR/Blocker/Rusher/DB) and juniors Jada Davis (WR/DB) and Lilly Munoz (Center/Rusher).
Taylor said McAdams is one of the team’s “most dynamic and versatile athletes.”
“As a wide receiver, she’s known for her ability to make big plays,” Taylor said. “On defense, she reads the ball exceptionally well and can step into any position as needed. Her leadership and playmaking abilities make her a fantastic asset to our team.”
Porter brings a “calm, poised presence to the field,” Taylor said. She is new to the team this year, but three seasons on the varsity basketball team “have equipped her with a strong sense of leadership.”
“Her ability to see the field and maintain an even-keeled demeanor under pressure has earned the respect of her teammates,” Taylor said.
Futch plays a critical role in the Lady Cougars defense and has a great ability to read and make key plays, Taylor said.
Pedrera is one of Alexander’s most versatile players, capable of stepping into any role needed on offense or defense. Taylor said she “always delivers” and her adaptability and readiness makes her a “crucial part of our lineup.”
Davis is key on both sides of the ball. On offense, Taylor said Davis is a reliable target at wide receiver who consistently creates separation from defenders, while on defense her speed and instincts allow her to make crucial stops and defend against the deep pass.
And Munoz sets the tone for the team with her leadership and relentless work ethic. She plays both rusher and center and her quickness off the snap makes her a constant threat to disrupt the opposing offense.
“Lilly’s leadership, both on and off the field, is instrumental to our team’s success,” Taylor said.