In just three years since the girls flag football program came to Merced High, the Bears have already made history. The 2025 season became a memorable year as the team pushed deeper into the playoffs than any previous team before them, proving that their hard work and dedication had paid off. Despite facing tough opponents and moments of adversity, the Bears’ resilience and teamwork carried them through a season full of highs and challenges, leaving a legacy of success that will surely have a lasting impact on the program in the years to come.
At the beginning of the season, Merced quickly established themselves as a dominant team to watch. Early wins over McNair High (52-0) and Grace Davis High (64-12) showcased their prowess on both offense and defense. However, the team did endure some challenges. A tough 25-6 first loss to McClatchy High reminded the Bears that consistency was key. Instead of letting the defeat impact them, the team relied on their strengths and used each setback to reevaluate and prepare them for the next opponent. Junior Leanna Amado highlighted the team’s resilience: “We all definitely had some difficulties throughout the season, but sometimes we all had to take a punch, and give it right back.”
As the season progressed, Merced maintained their focus and continued to develop as a team. They endured a tough CCC schedule but prevailed in close matchups, like the 20-19 victory against Atwater High and the cross-town rivalry game against El Capitan High in which the final score was 26-20. They closed the regular season with an impressive overall record, finishing 21-4 and securing a well deserved #1 seed in the Division II playoffs.
Junior Averie Steverson led the team in receiving this season with an impressive 82.5 receiving yards per game, while junior quarterback Antonia Lejarde also made significant contributions, averaging 36.3 rushing yards per game and throwing an astounding 103 touchdown passes throughout the season.
The defense, meanwhile, was anchored by freshmen players Aniayah Barron and Ayasha Beavers. Barron led the team in sacks (15) while Beavers led the team in tackles per game (4.5). The duo consistently put pressure on opposing offenses. “We all love the sport and we work hard every day. We have a very fast defense and our offense is powerful. When push came to shove, we were there to overcome anything,” says Amado, reflecting on the team’s performance and energy. This balanced effort on both sides of the ball helped the Bears navigate every game and build the confidence they needed for a memorable season.
When the playoffs arrived, the Bears began strong, determined to build on their regular season success. They defeated Grant High School in the first round of playoffs with a final score of 46-0, giving Merced high hopes for the following games. Next, Merced dominated Whitney High 34-19, showing their overall skill. In the semi-finals, they achieved another close win over Atwater High 13-7, proving their ability to perform under pressure and securing them a spot in the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division II Championship.
Amado reflected on the team mindset going into the section championship against defending 2024 champion Ponderosa High, “…it was all or nothing, and whatever happens, leave it on the field.” The Bears took all and gave back nothing as they dominated the championship game from start to finish.
Senior Ryann Perez, who averaged 46.1 receiving yards per game during the regular season and scored 24 total touchdowns, is considered a consistent offensive threat, often making crucial plays in high pressure situations. She lived up to that role in the championship game by catching three touchdown passes, including the Bears’ first points of the game, a 66-yard catch and run to the endzone. Her performance allowed the Bears to cruise to victory by a final score of 33-6. The win not only marked the program’s furthest playoff run but also their first CIF Sac-Joaquin Flag Football Section Championship.
The 2025 season was a huge step forward for the Merced High Girls Flag Football program. They showed diligence and hard work, steadily improving with every game. Their first section championship after just three years as a program shows tremendous growth from the players and coaches. The Bears set a new standard for all future Merced High flag football teams in 2025, adding another accomplishment to the tradition and rich legacy of Merced High.
- Photos by Grace Gallegos
Statistics provided from Maxpreps.com ↩︎
