Wolfpack, Bravettes ready for flag football championship

The 2023 State Flag Football Championships are set for Thursday at Butte’s Naranche Stadium, and it wouldn’t surprise many if Flathead and Glacier ended up in that final, 6 p.m., slot.

First, though, there’s a play-in game between 4-5 seeds Butte and Mission at 3 p.m.

The winner gets Glacier at 5 p.m.; at 4 p.m. Flathead plays newcomer Lockwood.

Then comes the championship game. Glacier won it over Flathead a year ago, 20-19.

That was after Flathead won a pair of regular-season meetings; likewise this year the Bravettes won a couple matchups from the Pack before Glacier earned a 25-6 win on Sept. 19.

Glacier coach Mark Kessler noted the early season was a challenge partly because of a rule change: This season defensive players start their rush from 7 yards downfield. It was 1 yard a year ago.

“Rush rules changed and we didn’t find out until we walked on the field the first time,” Kessler said. “Flathead adjusted to that rule change much better than we did. They also found out that day.”

Quarterback Kai Johnson and receiver Zoey Allen led the Wolfpack, which has suited up 36 varsity players and, depending on the opponent, played them all. Some are naturals, Kessler noted, and some take a while to come along.

“From that standpoint it’s been a total joy to be a part of,” said the second-year coach, who added: “Tomorrow they’re going to see our top dogs.”

Flathead, guided by coach Lisa Koehler, has quarterback Harlie Roth leading the way.

“She is phenomenal,” Kessler said. “Athletic and can throw the ball all over the field.”

He added Lockwood, which like Mission is new to the MHSA-sanctioned sport this season, has a couple very talented players.

“Should be a great day,” Kessler said.