Woodbridge captain eager for playoff run

A lot is on the line this season for the Woodbridge High girls flag football team, led by senior Zoey Ceman, a captain who plays receiver and linebacker. The Warriors will look to defend the Pacific Coast League title, and Woodbridge and other teams will compete in CIF-sanctioned postseason playoffs for the first time.

Woodbridge was undefeated in the league last year and was 23-2 overall in the first year the sport was CIF-sanctioned, but there weren’t enough teams for playoffs.

“I want to win league,” Zoey says. “It’s a big goal to keep that title going; I have high hopes. I think we will make the playoffs and get far in the playoffs, too.”

Though she plays offense and defense, Zoey definitely has a preference. “Receiver, for sure; I like scoring touchdowns.”

Woodbridge coach Mark Thompson is looking for another big year from Zoey, who started club flag football with the Matt Leinart League in fifth grade. “She is an excellent student and multisport athlete who plays both soccer and flag football,” Thompson says. “Zoey earned first team all-league last year for flag football and is an integral part of the team.”

“It’s going to be an Olympic sport (in 2028), so it’s fun that I get to watch it develop.”
senior Zoey Ceman

Zoey has witnessed firsthand the growth of the sport. “It’s going to be an Olympic sport (in 2028), so it’s fun that I get to watch it develop,” she says. “Everybody from different sports can come by and play and take it a little less seriously, but stay competitive and have fun.”

Will she try out for the Olympics? She hasn’t decided. “It would be a good experience to have. Hopefully I can be out in North Carolina trying out for the U.S. Trials.”

Zoey is eager for fresh challenges. “We have a new quarterback and a lot of returning players,” she says. “I’m excited for everybody to come back.”