Homecoming Week spirit was in full swing on Thursday as the annual Powder Puff football games took place immediately following the parade. With floats, cheers, and marching bands leading into the big event, the excitement carried straight from Main Street to the football field.
Every year, the lady Braves of Star Valley High School get the chance to dive into the unique culture of football through Powder Puff, commonly known as flag football. The freshmen and sophomores are always the first to play, then after their game, the juniors and seniors follow. This year ended with the sophomores winning 6-0 and the seniors winning 14-6.
Ironically, the juniors went in having four practices, one being an early morning session. The seniors went in with one 20-minute practice. Despite the uneven preparation, the girls had a fantastic game. Ambry Nelson said, “I will cherish the memories made on that field forever, from the laughs at funny moments, winning almost every year, and touchdown celebrations.”
Nelson had a game highlight catching a touchdown pass from Dallas Erickson. Nelson said, “After that, Dallas and I did our celebration, which was a chest bump into an aerial. That was my favorite play of the game.”
Looking at the underclassmen’s game, it turned out to be a real nail-biter. The freshmen put up a good fight but just couldn’t quite get some points on the board. There was a quick turn of events after the fumble recovery from Bella Beck. The sophomores then took the lead and claimed the win for the second time.
“The highlight of the game was when I rushed the ball as QB and got the team our winning touchdown,” sophomore Rachel Smith said. “Hopefully, we can win all four years of Powder Puff in high school.”
While winning feels amazing in most circumstances, the game of Powder Puff is so much more than that. Originally, the term “Powder Puff” refers to the soft makeup applicator, revealing the contrast between feminine traits and the toughness of football. Over time, though, it’s become more about female empowerment, school spirit, and fun competition.
With the help of players, coaches, referees, and fans, Star Valley High School demonstrates what this game is meant to be. Players and coaches had their own reasons for participating in this lively activity. Freshman Harbor Winder replied, “I chose to do Powder Puff because I have always gone to all the home football games and love to play football.”
Coach Charles Erickson choose Powder Puff “because I like to cook the other classes.” Who doesn’t like a set of bragging rights?
Whether it was touchdowns, team spirit, or just good laughs from the sidelines, this year’s Powder Puff game was a reminder that Homecoming Week is all about having fun and making memories that last long after the game ends.
