Wood-Ridge Flag Football Team Takes the Field at MetLife Stadium

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - Don't tell the Wood-Ridge girls flag football team 'It was just an exhibition game" in their game against Wallington at MetLife Stadium.

The Lady Blue Devils traveled to MetLife to face off against local rival Wallington on Sunday morning. According to Head Coach Michael Larkin, it was due to the efforts of Athletic Director Marc Sinclair.

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"Mr Sinclair reached out to me that he got in contact with MetLife," explained Larkin. "It's an awesome opportunity for the girls. We've been looking forward to it. It's an experience they're going to remember for the rest of their lives."

Assistant Coach Jerry Cala echoed those sentiments.

"It's not every day that you get to compete on an NFL field. It is something that the girls will always remember," said Cala. "I know it means a lot to them."

Lia Russo was the playmaker on offense, scoring a 30-yard touchdown and making a nice one-handed catch.  Gabbie Jones also caught a 20-yard touchdown pass on the last play of the game from Sam Raymond. Defensively, Bella Drotos had multiple key pass deflections and Yarmarit Rivera had a solid day pulling flags.

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Aside from the competition against Wallington, there was also comradery. Several of the Lady Panthers and Lady Blue Devils were teammates during the fall as part of the co-op girls soccer team.

"For me personally, it was extra special to be on the field with my girls, the nine soccer players that I had the pleasure of coaching last fall," said Wood-Ridge/Wallington soccer head coach Jerry Cala. "Seven of these ladies will be returning next season for us.  I was so happy that they all performed very well and are enjoying the experience of playing flag football. We thank the NY Giants and everyone who helped make this happen."

"As a die-hard NY Giants fan, it was an honor to be on the turf at Met Life Stadium," said Cala. "It was a great experience for the girls of Wood-Ridge High School and Wallington High School."

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