Lions Capture Flag Football State Title
Posted on 12/14/2022
Lithia Springs High School’s flag football team capped off an undefeated season Thursday by capturing the Class 5A-6A State Championship over Central (Carroll) High School with a dominant 14-0 performance.
“I’m so proud of this team and all the work they’ve put in this year,” said Pleasants following the victory. “We’ve worked really hard to get here, and this is the perfect end to this season.”
The Lions' effort in the state championship gave a small glimpse of their season, as they rode a dominant defensive effort to the victory. Both teams started slowly on offense, but LSHS broke through midway through the first half to take the lead.
On their first scoring drive, the LSHS converted a key fourth down in CHS territory to keep their drive alive. And later, Nevaeh Shedrick used her legs to find the end zone on another fourth down play to give LSHS a 7-0 lead.
Near the end of the half, CHS put together a long drive, but the Lion defense held strong as it has done all season to force a turnover on downs right before halftime.
After the half, both defenses dug in once again until LSHS’ Rashiya Minnex found Jayden Graham for a touchdown pass that gave the Lions a 14-0 lead and put the game out of reach and secure the state title.
Throughout the season, LSHS’ calling card was its defense, as the unit only surrendered one touchdown to opponents in 19 games. When asked about the unit, Pleasants said that the group’s focus is always on fundamentals and discipline.
“We stayed disciplined, and that’s been our motto all year long,” Pleasants said. “We’ve wanted to take it one game at a time and focus on playing good defense in every one.”