SPRINGFIELD — When Effingham County High School recently added flag football to its repertoire, Elodie Lockhart jumped at the opportunity to be the head coach.
“When we found out we were going to offer flag football, the athletic director (Matt Huntley) asked us who would be interested and I told myself, ‘If the kids want to play, they need to have someone on the field,’ so I volunteered,” Lockhart said.
Lockhart played YMCA soccer and coached her children in the sport as well. She currently teaches French at Effingham County.
“I am really excited to get back on the field with students, to win and see where the game is going to take us,” Lockhart said.
Lockhart expects the new team to deliver a high level of excitement and unity.
“I am super excited to get with the girls and build a sense of community, team and some spirit for the school,” she said.
Windsor Forest and Calvary will also field flag football teams and Lockhart is looking especially forward to taking on Richmond Hill.
“If you keep the drama out of the field, we get to have a good time,” Lockhart said. “As long as you put your best effort in, it’s going to be OK.”
Lockhart has big hopes for the season but isn’t putting any pressure on herself or the team.
“I want to win,” she said. “I want to win the whole thing. I want the trophy at the end but I don’t know what girls I am going to have.
“So as long as they provide their best all the time, I will be fine.”
Flag football practice will start Oct. 5. The first round of the state playoffs is Nov. 30.