Cypress Lake history was made on Mar. 6 as the Flag Football team received their first ever win against East Lee County High School. The flag football team was established just last year as the FHSAA adopted the sport for the 2023-2024 season, a sign of the sport’s nationwide growth. As a young team, the Lady Panthers were defeated in all of their matchups during the 2024 season. However as the team has grown in numbers and talent, the Cypress Lake Flag Football team’s future is bright. Returning player Abby Buckley said “Our team has grown tremendously and is continuing to do so…the future for CLHS flag football is very bright as the team continues to show up and be there for each other.”

The Panthers defeated the ELCHS Jaguars with a score of 2-0. This close game was won with a 2 point safety. The Lady Panthers showcased their hard work during this game, with many notable tackles and interceptions helping to hold the Jaguars. Buckley, named Player of the Game, had two interceptions and almost scored a pick-6. Buckley said “We’ve had a couple of hiccups along the way but they are only making us better as a team…this was shown through the East Lee win as we have learned how to play more cohesively and trust one another.”

The Panthers travel to Bonita Springs to face the Bull Sharks on Mar. 27. While their current record may not reflect their hard work on a surface-level, the future of Cypress Lake Flag Football is promising, and their first win is undeniably one to celebrate.