New Douglas County head flag football coach Ladawne Matthews said her Lady Tigers are hungrier, faster and more focused for the 2025 season.
The team’s goals are to win the region and make a deep playoff run while raising the standard, having fun and building confidence, Matthews said.
Key players this year for Douglas County include second-year star QB Makayla Pickett, three-year top wide receiver Destyn Smith, senior two-way player Aaliyah Burnham and first-year wide receiver Arissa James.
Matthews said she’s revamped the playbook, adding some dynamic sets and schemes that play to some of the Lady Tigers’ strengths: speed, communication and defensive pressure.
And, she’s working to build the team’s identity around discipline, energy and execution.
Other team strengths include lockdown defense, explosive offense, team chemistry and experienced leadership.
Matthews said her vision extends beyond wins and losses.
“This isn’t just a team—it’s a movement,” she said. “The Lady Tigers are coming with purpose, passion, and power. We’re not here to be overlooked—we’re here to set the tone, change the game, and leave our mark.”