Editor’s Note: This article was written for Mosaic, an independent journalism training program for high school and college students who report and photograph stories under the guidance of professional journalists.
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Overfelt High School’s girls flag football team is still searching for their first win. Last year, in their inaugural season, they went 0-17. This year, they’ve gone 0-14 so far. But it’s not all bad news.
This season, the team took the lead for the first time in two games this month, though they ultimately lost 13-12 and 26-18. Coach Miguel “Chief” Esparza remains optimistic. “We just have to learn how to finish games,” he said. “We can’t panic or make the mistakes that cost us in the end.”
Despite the losses, Esparza’s motivation stays strong. “I love coaching,” he said. “The bond the girls have, all the jokes, the way they make each other laugh — that’s what makes it fun. You never know what kind of practice you’re walking into.”
Last year, the team carried a large roster of 40 players. This year, 61 girls tried out, prompting Overfelt to create both a varsity and a junior varsity team, each with 18 players. Esparza explained that this would provide more playing time for everyone and help the players learn faster.
Returning players have stepped up as leaders, helping new team members fit in. This season also marked a milestone: the team played the school’s first game on its brand-new $800,000 turf field. Senior and varsity player Ava Chacón shared her thoughts: “It was really fun. I definitely could’ve played better, but as a team, we were right there. Playing on the new field felt good — way better than last year.”
Even without a win, coaches and players believe their performance has improved. They have closer scores, better communication, and more confidence with each game. Small victories, like pulling a key flag or completing a tight pass, feel meaningful.
Off the field, the team has raised over $4,000 through an online fundraiser on Snap to buy warm-up gear. Regardless of wins or losses, players take pride in building something they hope will last.
Overfelt’s flag football story is not just about a losing streak; it’s about progress, support, and refusing to give up. The team is confident their first win is coming, and when it does, it will prove that all their hard work meant something.
As Coach Esparza put it, “We’ve had a good season, even if we haven’t won a game. The growth, the memories, and the support mean everything.”
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Alexis Carrillo is a member of the class of 2026 at William C. Overfelt High School in San Jose.
https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/11/03/despite-no-win-season-overfelt-flag-football-team-stays-enthusiastic/