The annual PowderPuff game, a spirited flag football event, features teams made up of girls from each grade level, bringing plenty of energy, competition, and school pride to the field.
The format is simple but exciting—each grade competes head-to-head in a bracket-style tournament until one class is crowned the champion. Players train and strategize in the weeks leading up to the big night, often with the support of volunteer coaches. The PowderPuff tradition is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of teamwork, community, and spirit. Each grade shows off not only their athletic ability but also their class pride. Freshmen arrive eager to prove themselves, sophomores hungry to top last year’s performance, juniors determined to rise to the challenge, and seniors ready to claim one last victory before graduation.
Previous competitions were no exception. The games were filled with highlight-worthy plays. The final score crowns only one grade the winner, though the PowderPuff game has always been about more than a trophy. It’s about bringing the school together during Homecoming Week, giving students a chance to show their talents, and creating memories that will last far beyond high school. While everyone’s out there playing or practicing, grades fade away, and it just becomes about girls having fun. Refreshing!
One thing that is a huge aspect of this game is the fact that it is a male-dominated sport, being played by women. That might be why it is less popular.
“No matter what it is, women are just as dedicated and powerful, if not more. It shows commitment and dedication,” said Grant Dwyer who added that he would love to see more of it.
“I think it’s a great thing. I think it’s great to show the girls they can participate in a sport that is mainly for boys. It’s important because they see through practice that they are just as capable,” said ILS basketball coach, Mr. Matt Shapiro.
“It’s a tradition that’s been going on for many years that has empowered women to step up and take part in an only man sport,” said senior Danny Brito.
Though many see this game as just some free-time activity, there are others who genuinely love it. One prime example is Mr. Anthony Vuono, ILS’s Physical Education Chair. A long time football coach for both middle and high school, he’s actively trying to bring flag football to ILS as a part of the main sports’ program.
“That’s the dream: all the girls do all the sports being coached by girls. Role models. It’s cool. I have daughters so I want them to have that opportunity,” he explained. This mindset is exactly what’s needed not only in ILS but around the world.
As the winning grade proudly accepts a championship title, one thing was clear: the PowderPuff game continues to be a highlight of Homecoming, uniting the school in friendly competition and spirited fun. `
