Lithia Springs has established itself as a state powerhouse in flag football. The Lady Lions have been to the state championship game the past four seasons, and Head Coach Kendra Pleasants says her team is ready to make it a fifth. “Of course, we want to make another state appearance,” she said during the recent Flag Football Media Day. “We're very disciplined, as always, and we're going to make sure we drive with our defense.”
Lithia opened the 2024 season with a marquee 14-13 win over North Oconee in the Corky Kell + Dave Hunter Flag Football Classic.
The Lady Lions return four starting seniors from last year’s team. Outside linebacker and receiver Jasmine McDowell brings a lot of speed to the Lady Lions. She was on Lithia’s track team that won a state title in the spring. “Her intensity is just hard,” Pleasants said. “Her work ethic is hard. Everything about this young lady is just good, inside the classroom and on the field.” Ari Holton is a team captain and plays center and receiver. Pleasants said she brings a strong worth ethic, is a “joy to have on the team” and is always “pushing everybody to do their best.” Receiver MyAngel Ross dominates the field on both sides of the ball. Pleasants said Ross is one of her team’s best receivers and is nicknamed “The Hand” because of how well she catches the ball. She’s also a great leader, Pleasants said. Jayden Graham moves from center, where she started for three seasons, to receiver and defensive back. Graham made a couple of touchdowns in the state championship game two years ago. “She brings a lot of explosiveness to the game,” Pleasants said.
The Lady Lions are back in action Oct. 30 at home against Kennesaw Mountain and Bowdon.