LYNN — Sunday, they meet again.
The Lynn Classical and Lynn English powderpuff football teams are ready for kickoff at Manning Field with action slated for noon. It’s an annual tradition in which senior girls compete in a two-hand-touch football game ahead of Thanksgiving.
Rod Valrie returns to coach Classical — which has won the last three games — while Madison Molea commands the English ship. She has helped out the program since 2019.
“We’re feeling good,” Valrie said. “Practices have been going pretty well. This group has gotten better throughout the whole process. Now that the game is basically here, they’re ready to rock and roll.”
“This game is one of my favorite traditions here at Lynn English,” said Molea, whose group will be captained by Dayana Hios-Edwards, Stephanie Jean-Pierre, Madisen McHale, and Catherine Bushway. “It’s a great way to kick off Thanksgiving week.”
The Rams escaped the Bulldogs 20-19 last year — a thriller that came down to the very last play. Jade Quero, Maegan Baker, Yankarla Matias, Nevaeh Eth, and Keisha Perez played key roles.
“At the end of the day, we ended up getting the win and keeping the streak alive,” said Valrie, who credited Derek Edmonds for his help coaching the defense. “They were there as freshmen and have seen three wins. So, they know about the streak and want to get it done. They’re excited to continue the tradition.”
“I’m excited for Sunday,” Molea said. “Last year’s game was very back and forth — we ended up losing by one point. The girls are excited and fired up to get out there. Some of them have been looking forward to this game since freshman year. It’s going to be a great game and there is nothing better than gearing up to play your crosstown rival.”
The Marblehead and Swampscott powderpuff teams will clash Saturday at Blocksidge Field beginning at 10 a.m. Saugus athletes played each other Thursday and Friday, while Peabody juniors and seniors square off Monday at 7 p.m.
St. Mary’s juniors will play the seniors Monday at 5:30 p.m. KIPP Academy plays its powderpuff game during the spring.
