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Plans are in motion to begin a merged girls varsity flag football team that would include Clymer, Sherman and Panama schools.
After students expressed interest, the three schools began working to put together a pilot program for this year. The coaches for the team are current CSP Wolfpack football coaches, Ty Harper from Sherman, and Chris Payne from Panama.
Both coaches expressed hope for the success of the flag football program.
"This merger has a proven track record of success, whether that's in football or track and cross country," Harper said. "I think for the kids in Sherman and the other two districts this is an opportunity for something they have not had before, and it's an exciting opportunity for the girls."
Girls varsity flag football has become a popular sport offering, growing both locally and across the country. Several teams have either been established at area schools or are in the process of being formed.
Harper said Clymer, Sherman and Panama will each have eight to 10 players who will make up the merged team.
Payne agreed with Harper that it was exciting for the girls to be able to have this experience.
"I have been coaching football since 1989, head coach of the Panama team for 20 years, and defensive coordinator for the Wolfpack since 2016," Payne said. "I have coached basketball, track, golf, tennis, boys volleyball and baseball in my time here at Panama. I am excited that the girls have a chance to participate in the game of football and I really wanted to start this sport for the girls."
Hopes from both coaches include the ability to work as a cohesive unit, especially since this will be many participants' first time on a merged team, along with the ability to make the program an official spring sport.
"This is the pilot program this year, so if it is a success and interest continues then it will officially be added as a spring sport offering next year," Harper said.
Additionally, Payne said the goal is to be able to teach the players as much as they can about playing football.
"We are also hoping the girls learn about the ins and outs of football (like) how to run offensive plays with spacing and purpose," Payne said. "We want them to learn what it takes to run a defense, play man, play zone and be able to pursue the football. We hope the girls enjoy the program and when it comes to a full out program, like the Erie County Interscholastic Conference next year, that they enjoy it enough to keep playing."