La Cañada High School’s inaugural girls' flag football season is more than just a milestone for the school—it’s a statement about the future of women’s sports.
With a 10-2 record and a shot at the league title, the first-year team has quickly become a powerhouse, led by determined athletes and a coach with a bold vision.
At the center of the Spartans’ rise is coach Reuben Chavira, who set out not just to start a new team but to build something that would last.
“We wanted to build a brand and identity they’re proud of,” Chavira said.
His goal was to create a program where young women could develop their athletic identity, separate from the boys’ football team, and build a space that belonged uniquely to them.
Ric Tapia - The Sporting Tribune
La Cañada’s rise comes at a time when women’s sports are gaining momentum, bolstered by milestones like the announcement that flag football will be part of the 2028 Olympics. This broader movement has added a sense of purpose to the Spartans’ journey.
Their season wasn’t just about games—it was about being part of something larger.
The program’s start wasn’t guaranteed. There was uncertainty about whether enough interest existed to even form a team. But when 24 girls showed up for tryouts, Chavira knew something special was brewing. The team quickly came together, driven by a mix of athleticism and belief.
One of the defining moments of the season came early on—a 6-0 win over South Hills, a team they weren’t expected to beat.
“We believed more than they did,” Chavira said of the first victory.
It was a reminder to the players that discipline and self-belief could carry them through even the toughest challenges.
Ric Tapia - The Sporting Tribune
Junior quarterback Gretchen Louie has been at the heart of the team’s offense, throwing for 1,425 yards and 22 touchdowns. Louie’s journey to flag football started long before the team was even formed.
Her family played a pivotal role in securing a grant from the Los Angeles Rams, which provided the necessary resources to get the program off the ground.
“Having a player like Gretchen gave us the green light to start this team,” Chavira noted.
But the Spartans’ success isn’t solely due to one player. Sophomore Chloe Babakhanian leads the rushing attack with 288 yards, and freshman Kelsey Stratton has emerged as a key target with seven touchdown receptions.
Meanwhile, sophomore Sahana Garg, despite balancing AP classes and club soccer, has been a standout on both sides of the ball, contributing 224 receiving yards and three interceptions.
The team’s discipline and hard work have been crucial to their success. Practicing five days a week, the Spartans have outworked many of their opponents, a fact reflected in their performance at the L.A. Rams Girls’ Flag Football Jamboree, where they went undefeated.
“The difference between winning and losing is how much you’re willing to invest,” Chavira emphasized.
Their success has sparked interest across the school. Younger students are now looking to join, and even athletes from other sports are starting to consider flag football. It’s becoming a key part of La Cañada’s athletic culture.
“(He's) already hearing seventh and eighth graders ask if they’re good enough to make the team next year,” Chavira said.
Ric Tapia - The Sporting Tribune
With their final game against West Ridge on the horizon and a league title within reach, the Spartans are focused on finishing strong. But Chavira is already looking ahead to next year. He hopes to develop a junior varsity team and create a pipeline for players to continue competing at the college level.
“I see myself as their first college coach,” Chavira said, underlining his long-term commitment to the program.
In just their first season, La Cañada’s girls' flag football team has established itself as a contender and a program to watch. Their success isn’t just about the wins but about creating a culture of growth and empowerment.
As they look to the future, the Spartans are already laying the groundwork for a program that could inspire future generations.
“I want the girls to look back and be proud of this experience,” Chavira said.
