Atlanta, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) -The scoreboard told one story Monday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but the larger narrative belonged to Washington County.
The Lady Hawks stepped onto the state’s biggest stage for the first time in program history, competing in the GHSA Division One Flag Football State Championship and finishing the season as state runners-up. For a program still finding its footing, the appearance alone marked a turning point.
The Lady Hawks spent much of the game playing from behind, with Harris County building a lead that stood at 25–0 by the break. Still, Washington County refused to fold. The Lady Hawks showed renewed energy after halftime, moving the ball effectively and threatening to score deep in Tiger territory before an interception halted the drive. A second late interception closed the door on a comeback, as Harris County secured a 32–0 win.
Despite the loss, the significance of the moment was not lost on the Washington County sideline. Head coach Jay English reflected on what the appearance meant for a program still in its early stages.
“I hope they understand that what they’re doing is building the future for girls like that, and hopefully—this is the fastest growing sport in America—hopefully we’ll keep this thing building, and young girls in Washington County will grow up looking forward to playing flag football. Life’s bigger than the game. Things are gonna hit you in the face. In life, it’s a lot worse than losing a football game. So they need to be proud and be proud they brought the community together. We had some stuff going on back in Washington County, so they brought everybody together.”
Being a WACO alum himself, the moment wasn’t lost on him either.
“I was born there. I played there, came back, and as coach there. I’ve been there 20 years as a teacher and coach, all I know is Washington County, and for me to do this and bring these girls on this stage for our community at the end of the day, I take serious pride in that.”
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