Illinois College paving the way in inaugural flag football season
By Ryne Turke
On a campus steeped in tradition, a new sport is making its mark. Illinois College’s first-ever women’s flag football team is off to a thrilling start, setting the tone for a program with a bright future.
After a few months of practices, the Lady Blues opened their season on a massive stage at Halas Hall in the Chicago Bears College Tournament. Illinois College would finish 1-1 and as runners-up in the championship game.
Back home at England Stadium, the team stayed hot, defeating North Park University 28-26 on March 21, thanks to a late safety, in front of a packed crowd. The Lady Blues have since added a big win over Benedictine University and nail bitter losses to Illinois Wesleyan University on their season, and currently sit at 3-3.
The roster blends local talent with new names eager to make their mark. Freshman Abby Flowers, a Carrollton High School graduate, says returning to competition drew her to the program.
“I really missed competing,” Flowers says. “After high school, I was burnt out, but once I got to college, I realized how much I missed that part of my life.”
That realization, combined with a conversation with head coach Mark Grounds, who shared his vision for a brand-new program, convinced Flowers to make the leap.
Flowers has always had football in her life. Her father has coached for decades, and family ties to Illinois College made joining feel like a full-circle moment. With over 700 yards of offense and six touchdowns on her resume, Flowers has quickly become one of the team’s dynamic weapons.
For others, football was completely new. Olivia Hulsey, from Oakville High School in St. Louis, joined the Lady Blues with no prior experience, motivated simply by the chance to try something different.
“What drew me to flag football was wanting to step outside my comfort zone,” shares Hulsey, who made program history by scoring Illinois College’s first-ever flag football touchdown.
That shared sense of passion and eagerness has become one of the team’s greatest strengths. Without pre-established roles or expectations, the Lady Blues have built a culture focused on growth and support.
“Everyone just wants each other to succeed,” Hulsey says. “I think we’ve improved every week, and we just keep getting better.”
Much of that growth stems from the leadership of Grounds and his staff. Teaching football to athletes with varying experience levels is no small task, but their effort has made this season a success.
“It’s been very rewarding teaching the game to a group that’s never played,” Grounds says. “Their passion and competitiveness have been exciting to see.”
Practices reflect that balance between structure and enjoyment. There is a clear focus on development, but also a noticeable sense of freedom to find ways for every athlete to make an impact on the field.
“The energy is so positive,” Flowers says. “Everyone wants to be there, and that makes a huge difference.”
That environment has attracted athletes like senior Reagan Oster of Breese Central, who added flag football to a busy senior year filled with student teaching and volleyball coaching.
“I wanted to finish my senior year on a high note,” Oster says. “I knew this would be something special. We’re having a big opening season with huge highs.”
Oster, who is among the team leaders in passing, receiving and rushing yards, says the belief in the program’s potential is shared across the roster. While early wins have been thrilling, the team’s long-term vision is the true legacy they’ll leave behind.
Plans are underway to expand the schedule, host larger events, and create opportunities for younger athletes to get involved. For a program that didn’t exist a year ago, this may be the most impressive part.
The Lady Blues hit the road for their season finale at the Benedictine Flag Fest on April 11.
