A heartbreaking semifinal loss may have ended the season for
Mission Hills (San Marcos, Calif.) in 2025 but the Grizzlies return an experienced nucleus eager to make another deep run at the inaugural MaxPreps Flag Football Showdown on Sept. 11-12.
Head coach Neil Jamison's squad finished 18-5 last season before falling to eventual San Diego Section Division 1 champion Torrey Pines, which will also be competing in the Showdown, on a Hail Mary as time expired. The Grizzlies proved they could compete against top-tier competition, posting a 3-3 record against fellow MaxPreps Flag Football Showdown participants while building on an 11-4 campaign in 2024.
"Our league is super tough, as you can see by your tournament," Jamison said. "I think we have four teams from our league that are actually in this tournament."
Sophomore Catie Kaminski looks to help Mission Hills to an impactful showing at the MaxPreps Flag Football Showdown on Sept. 11-12. (PHOTO: Mark Leingang)
Jamison said he expects to feature a new quarterback this season with sophomore
Kensie Del Gatto taking over the after not playing varsity a year ago. She will have an experienced group of playmakers around her, including sophomore receivers
Catie Kaminski and
Kenley Imoto, who combined for 1,300 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns.
Junior
Faith Malufau returns as one of the team's premier two-way threats after producing 10 offensive touchdowns while recording 11 interceptions and five sacks on defense.
Junior
Tatem Tinoisamoa, daughter of former NFL linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa, anchors the pass rush after finishing with 20 sacks and seven interceptions and providing another inspirational presence for a veteran team looking to contend in Chula Vista.
"As long as we're making strides toward the end of the year, I think that's what we're looking for," Jamison said. "It doesn't matter who we play, the girls are going to expect to win because that's how they're wired. I think that's why we've had our success, is the type of kids we have and their ability to compete."
