The Oak Park and River Forest High School flag football program has come a long way in a short amount of time. What was once a fledgling experiment with just a handful of players is now one of the school’s fastest-growing sports. This fall, nearly 80 girls wear Huskie colors, and for the first time, the team has three full units.

For head coach Jim Geovanes, who helped found the entire girls flag football league in Illinois, the growth is deeply personal. 

“We went from about 30 teams in 2021 to 60 in 2022, and now in 2025 we’re at over 270 teams with IHSA recognition, the fastest sport to ever get that recognition in IHSA history,” Geovanes said.

The Huskies are part of that rise. While Geovanes acknowledges there’s still plenty of work to do, he’s excited about the opportunity ahead. “With seniors who’ve been in the program for three years and understand our system, the sky’s the limit,” he said.

The Huskies current roster reflects Geovanes’ vision, with experienced seniors providing leadership and a group of underclassmen contributing depth and energy. This balance gives the program a strong foundation for both immediate goals and long term growth, a point Geovanes emphasizes when discussing how he manages the team’s development. 

“I don’t want to run a program with an iron fist where girls are afraid to show up,” Geovanes said. “We’ll work with their other commitments, jobs, club sports, but we’re not pushovers either. The fine line is communication.” 

That balance has fostered a family-like atmosphere. Over the summer, the players ran youth camps and battled through hot practices, some often heading straight to work afterward. They also bonded at the team events, from beach outings to a private night at Great America, where they celebrated the season ahead.

Offensive coordinator Chris Ledbetter said those moments matter as much as any practice. “They like being around each other,” he said. “It’s not just about football. It’s a special time in their lives.”

nSenior defensive leader Aniyah Blackwell agreed, comparing the team to a safe space. “For all of us, even the new people, it’s something we can rely on to make us feel good,” she said. “It feels like home.”

OPRF’s offense has shown real promise throughout their games against St. Ignatius College Prep, Fenwick and Downers Grove North. With the Huskies’ putting up 18 against SICP, 37 against Fenwick and 36 against DGN, the team’s overall record currently stands at 8-3, outperforming early expectations.

The offense blends a balanced attack that keeps opponents guessing. Ledbetter highlights their ability to pivot mid-game: “We can run it if we need to, or pass it if that gives us an edge,” he said. “Creating mismatches is our strong suit.” 

At the center of it is Julia Henderson, a third-year quarterback praised for precision and pose. “Julia’s a true pocket passer,” Ledbetter said. 

Julia has embraced her leadership role as a senior, both on and off the field.

“A lot of the younger players and new teammates look up to me,” Henderson said. “I like to check in with them, make sure they understand what’s going on, and teach things that were once taught to me.”

Henderson also credited communication for the team’s offensive success. 

“We have to be on the same page for every play,” she explained. 

This year’s new rush rule, moving defenders just one yard off of the ball, has forced faster reads and adjustments from the offense. Ledbetter mentions having to tweak the playbook to give Henderson enough time for second and third options.

Senior returner Cora Brown summed up the offense’s attitude: “We’re eager. Eager to win, eager to win, eager to change.”

If the offense sets the pace, the defense provides the backbone. Defensive coordinator coach Howard Birmingham asserts that discipline is their calling card. “Our main goal this season is to be consistent and disciplined,” Birmingham said.

Birmingham praised his group’s ability to learn and adjust quickly, noting that they’ve been memorizing defensive coverages without cue cards or wristbands. “Iron sharpens iron,” he added. “I’m no good to them if I can’t help sharpen them.” 

As the season progresses, the Huskies’ will continue to face tough competition. Geovanes believes these challenges will prepare his team for the postseason.

With a strong senior class, a rising offense, and a defense built on discipline, OPRF’s girls flag football team is ready to make this season their best yet.