Players on the Molokai girls flag football team pose for a photo after winning the first-ever Maui Interscholastic League Division II championship. Courtesy photo

For the Molokai girls flag football team, the hard work has paid off.

This was the first year girls flag football has been divided into Division I and Division II, and with a motto of “Kulia i ka nuʻu” (striving for the highest), the Farmers achieved a goal they had set for themselves at the start of the season — finishing as champions.

“We have been wanting to win gold since we heard that we had our own division to play in, and this opportunity motivated us to practice hard and to play hard throughout this whole season,” said senior Courtney Escobar, who plays quarterback, wide receiver and strong safety.

Despite the challenges of being an outer-island Division II team — traveling to Maui and competing Upcountry, in Hana and across the Valley Isle — the Farmers showed their dedication to the growing sport as they defeated Lanai in the championship game 14-6 on April 21.

The Farmers adapted to circumstances beyond their control and embraced the demands of being student-athletes. Their coach said the Farmers took ownership of their play, tightening their routes and execution, while trusting the process and making steady progress.

“Going back to our triple As — know assignment, know alignment and an attitude of execution — is what set them apart,” coach Kimo Orlando said.

Winning a championship, especially the first one ever for Division II, taught the girls flag football team lessons beyond the field.

“This experience teaches them that they are valued, significant and special,” Orlando said. “You can be a game-changer, great influencer, difference-maker and great team player.”

While winning the championship not only means a great deal to the team the victory has also resonated across the Molokai community.

And it didn’t come without overcoming some adversity.

After rescheduling two games due to weather and suffering a loss to Lanai, the Farmers responded with a comeback performance in the MIL championship, where they ultimately captured the title.

“As a team captain, me and my team carried this opportunity with a lot of pride, determination and unity,” said senior center and free safety Tyra Coelho-Kelekolio. “Throughout this season we faced multiple setbacks from the games being rescheduled because of the kona low storms to personal life problems. But we still stayed focused on our goals and became determined to take home the MIL championship title. This experience brought us closer as a team and showed the strength of our hard work and dedication. This wasn’t just about winning — it was about making our island proud and putting Molokai on the map.”

By winning the MIL title, Molokai has secured the MIL’s lone slot in the Hawaii High School Division II State Championships on May 13-16.

Orlando said he especially wants to thank God and Lord Jesus Christ, as well as his coaching staff Tyson Tamanaha, Kaleo Puaa, Micael Haskins, Kehau Orlando, players, and Athletic Director Amanda Scala, former Athletic Director Lee DeRouin, Coach Kahale and Coach Kirk Kiaha, as well as “our parents, Farmers Nation fans, island of Molokai and supporters of Molokai High School.”