When East Bay High's flag football team kicks off its season this month, the squad will be looking to take the next step.
The Indians have won back-to-back district championships.
In 2008, they lost in the first round of the regional tournament to Plant City, the eventual state runner-up. Last year, they lost to Plant City in the regional championship game.
"We want to be in states this year," said Andrea Benedetto, a junior linebacker and team captain.
Benedetto was a big reason East Bay won its second consecutive district crown.
"She made the game-saving flag pull in our (district) title game," said Michael Cooper, coach. "She's a highly motivated individual who is always positive - it's a pleasure having her on the team."
This is Benedetto's third year on the team. She had played volleyball in middle school but had grown up watching football with her family.
"When I went from middle school to high school, I was looking for a sport I could play," Benedetto said. "I felt I could use my knowledge of football and apply it on the field."
The Indians will start their district title defense Monday, when they travel to Durant High.
Beyond that, Benedetto wants to attend the University of Central Florida and become a pediatrician.
"I've known I wanted to do that since I was 8," she said. "My stepmom is a nurse, and she used to bring me to the hospital with her."
Until then, she'll continue to enjoy her time on the flag football field.
"I really enjoy the competition, but I also like that it's just for fun - there are no scholarships at stake here," Benedetto said. "We're here to play and have a good time."
GET TO KNOW
WHO: Andrea Benedetto
AGE: 17
SCHOOL: East Bay High
GRADE: 11
SPORTS: flag football
PLANS: Wants to attend the University of Central Florida and become a pediatrician
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