ROCKTON, Ill. – In a testament to hard work and community spirit, the Hononegah High School girls flag football team has secured a place in the state quarterfinals. The Indians will meet Prospect at 6 p.m. Friday at Willowbrook High School in Villa Park.
Coach Brunke Credits Daily Commitment
Head coach Jason Brunke, who also leads the school’s basketball program, said the quarterfinal berth reflects the daily commitment of a group still mastering a relatively new sport. “They’ve been working very hard all season, overcome some challenges,” Brunke explained. “We’ve challenged them every day in practice to make sure that they’re giving everything they got and continuing to learn and grow in a game that’s pretty new to pretty much all of them.”
Senior Leaders Drive the Offense
Senior quarterback Layla Demke praised the team’s chemistry and reliability. “It’s really good because they can all catch the ball,” Demke said. “Whenever I throw it, I know they’re going to catch it. I know they can make a play out of it.” Senior Mikayla Mowers, who scored a touchdown in the sectional championship win, echoed that sentiment, noting the close bonds formed off the field. “We’re all really close outside of flag, so we all get along really, really well,” Mowers said. “We all work really well together.”
Freshman Impact and Multi‑Sport Talent
Freshman Claire VanSchelven has already made an immediate impact, crediting the welcoming atmosphere of the team. “Everyone has made it really easy on me,” VanSchelven said. “Being around everyone is just a really nice experience.” Brunke highlighted that many players, including Mowers and Demke, were drawn to flag football through basketball, soccer, or softball. “We’re getting athletes from all different walks of athletic life,” he said. “Whether it’s basketball players or soccer kids or softball kids, we’ve had success in all facets.”
Looking Ahead to the State Tournament
As the Indians prepare for their first state appearance, Brunke urges the team to enjoy the moment while staying focused. “Just have some fun and embrace it and enjoy the moment,” he said. “And then just continue to do what we’re doing now — continue to focus on every snap.” Mowers added, “Not everyone gets the opportunity, so to have it, it’s amazing.”
Flag Football’s Growing Presence in Illinois
Flag football is still a relatively new sport in Illinois, but Hononegah’s rapid ascent underscores the enthusiasm of young athletes and the support of the local community. Demke expressed her personal hopes for the future, saying, “I love this sport so much. It’s so much fun being able to play with all my friends.” She also mentioned aspirations to continue playing at the collegiate level.
The upcoming quarterfinal matchup against Prospect will be the first time Hononegah competes at this stage of the state tournament. Fans from Rockton and surrounding areas are encouraged to attend Willowbrook High School on Friday to cheer on the team and celebrate a milestone that reflects both athletic excellence and the power of teamwork.
Original reporting: WIFR Rockford News First (local) — read the source article.
