the staff of the Ridgewood blog
East Rutherford NJ, playing on the grand stage of an MetLife stadium brought out the best in Ridgewood’s flag football team on Saturday night. A fortunate bounce and perhaps a bit of divine intervention also played a role.
Senior quarterback Katie Bisgrove threw for three touchdowns in her final game, leading the Maroons to a decisive 26-0 victory over Wayne Valley at MetLife Stadium, securing their second consecutive state championship. The No. 1 offense in the state was unfazed by the big stage and an opposing defense that had previously shut out eight straight opponents.
The Game Highlights
The standout moment of the game came just before halftime. Following a Ridgewood turnover, Bisgrove launched a Hail Mary pass into double coverage. A Wayne Valley defender tipped the ball right into the hands of freshman Gabby Winn, who scored a touchdown.
“You have people with a three-year age gap, and I think sports just bring people together, especially this one that is all about empowerment,” Bisgrove said. “It’s amazing to see how close we’ve gotten and the chemistry we’ve formed. To celebrate here at MetLife Stadium is insane. I have so much hope for the future of this team and the sport.”
What It Means
Ridgewood (13-1) has become the first team to win back-to-back state titles since flag football gained club status in 2021. The victory celebration included two ice baths, one for Bisgrove and one for coach Michael McDermott.
“Between the anxious sweat and the actual sweat from running around, that felt great,” Bisgrove said. “I’m glad I didn’t get the Gatorade—that was for Coach McDermott.”
After drying off, McDermott had a special announcement for his players. Holding up a football-themed baby shirt, he shared that he and his wife are expecting a daughter this November.
“I’m extremely blessed with this team,” McDermott said. “They were so much fun to be around. Every practice was a joy. We laughed and had good times. I’m sad the season is over. I want to keep going.”
Key Turning Points
Ridgewood set the tone by scoring three times in the first half, entering the break with 20 points—more than Wayne Valley had allowed all season. Destiny Handy started the scoring with a seven-yard run, followed by Danielle DeNoy’s first of two touchdown catches, which she juggled before securing.
“I couldn’t really catch it in the warmups,” DeNoy said. “It got me a little nervous. It was stressful when I was juggling it, but I caught it, and that’s all that mattered.”
Freshmen played pivotal roles in the first half’s closing moments. Penelope Pace intercepted a pass near midfield, and two plays later, Winn caught a 31-yard touchdown pass as time expired. McDermott credited the team’s practice of their one-minute drill for this success.
“I knew I just had to chuck it up,” Bisgrove said. “I trust every single receiver so much. I knew if I threw it up, somebody would make a play. Gabby made the play. It’s crazy that she’s a freshman and she’s able to do that.”
Bisgrove completed 11 of 20 passes for 138 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Though she is set to play soccer as an elite goalie at Elon, her impact on the football field has been immense.
“She’s been basically living in my office and watching film 24/7, trying to dissect defense,” McDermott said. “Her progression from sophomore to senior year is incredible.”
“I probably have to apologize to him because I just stopped knocking on his door,” Bisgrove added. “I just walk in now.”
Ridgewood’s remarkable performance at MetLife Stadium not only secured another championship but also highlighted the team’s unity and potential for future success.
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I wonder if they could beat the Jets ?
must be those 6:15am school day practices
Post of the day !