Bell Gardens High School Flag Football Girls Season Preview

The team at Bell Gardens High School is gearing up for an exciting season, and I had the opportunity to speak with their head coach, Stanley Carranza, about their preparation and goals. With a strong group of returning players and promising new additions, Coach Carranza and his team are focused on achieving their ultimate goal of winning their league and making it to CIF. However, they also recognize the importance of discipline, minimizing errors, consistency, and team unity in order to achieve success. Let's take a closer look at what Coach Carranza had to say about his team and their upcoming season. When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Carranza highlighted some impressive individuals who possess unique talents. He mentioned Marie Paylor, a junior who brings unparalleled speed and skill to the team. He also highlighted senior Zuleica Jimenez, who has not only stepped up as a leader but has also taken on the challenging role of quarterback after losing their previous starter. Despite the setback, Coach Carranza believes Jimenez's determination and drive will make a significant impact on the team this season. But Coach Carranza is not just relying on his returning players to lead the team to success. He also mentioned some newcomers who have already made a strong impression on the coaches and their teammates. One of them is freshman Ruby Garduno, who has shown natural athleticism and a competitive spirit that will surely make her a standout athlete in the years to come. When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Carranza looks for qualities such as leadership, competitiveness, and a passion for the sport. This year, senior Paula Martin has stepped up as a leader, earning a captain's role in her first year with the team. Alongside her is freshman Ruby Garduno, who has already made an impact on the team with her natural skills and competitive drive. Having these young athletes as natural leaders on the team is a great sign for the future of the program. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial for any successful team, and Coach Carranza believes it starts with the captains. As the extension of the coach, the captains take initiative and keep the team accountable for their actions. Along with Martin and Garduno, other players like Deanna Moore and America Rico are also playing essential roles in building team unity and fostering a positive environment. Motivation is a key factor in pushing athletes to reach their full potential, and Coach Carranza has some creative ways of keeping his team motivated.