The girls’ flag football team has started the 2025 campaign on fire, following up a run to the Elite Eight of the state tournament in 2024. The team has opened the season with an impressive 7-1 record, recently blowing out top-ranked Fremd and Whitney Young.
“We have definitely been doing very well so far. Not only has our record been excellent, but more importantly, the girls have really been enjoying the experience,” said head coach Carlton Rosemond.
The team’s success has been built on an extremely dominant defense that has conceded an average of only 4.2 points per game. They have also managed to shut out their opponents in five of their eight games. Much of their defensive success stems from a star-studded secondary that includes standout junior KyNia Hunt and sophomore Ella Martin, who have both consistently forced key turnovers when needed.
“Since we became a program, our defense has been our backbone. A lot of times, our defense bails out the offense when they’re not clicking,” commented Rosemond.
Despite heavily relying on the defense, the Kits’ offense stepped up in a crucial game against Fremd. After last year’s heartbreaking loss to Fremd in the state tournament, the Kits were fired up to get their revenge.
“It was kind of our get-back game. Last year, they beat us in a heartbreaker in the state tournament,” remarked Rosemond. “And so I think our girls were very, very eager to see where we stand, and we put together a full game.”
The Kits were able to get their revenge against Fremd, winning the game 31-12. Fremd, the reigning state champion, was no match for the Kits. Star junior Camille Calixte played on both sides of the ball, making a huge impact throughout the game, especially on defense. Calixte broke a school record by sacking Fremd’s superstar quarterback, senior Lily Mayer, eight times. With the Kits’ defensive powerhouse in full force, Fremd couldn’t generate enough offense to keep up with Evanston.
Last season’s deep playoff run was fueled by the Kits getting hot at the right time, winning eight straight games before their eventual loss to Fremd. This season, they’re looking to repeat that feat—this time to claim the state crown.
“Our goal is that our season ends with us hoisting the state trophy, and of course, having fun throughout the entire journey,” said Rosemond.
The Kits’ next step on their road to state is a series of conference games against New Trier, Deerfield, and Glenbrook South.
