Flags waved and cleats were firmly secured for the start of the 2025 Cayman Islands Flag Football Association summer premier league.
Games kicked off on 28 June at the Ed Bush Stadium in West Bay with a series of exhilarating 5 versus 5 matchups across men’s and women’s non-contact, and men’s contact divisions.
The opening day was filled with dominant performances, nail-biting finishes, and promising debuts.
In the men’s non-contact division, Cobras delivered a decisive 34-6 victory over the Anklebullies in the league’s opener.
Although Anklebullies, led by veteran quarterback Terry Ballard, set the tone of the game early on offence, Cobras had other plans.
After shaking off some early rust, the Cobras, guided by coach Oliver Parker and quarterback John Kamrowski, found their rhythm and controlled the game, taking their first win of the league.
In game two, the I’Reign men also secured a win, defeating BTA 22-13 in a tightly contested battle.
I’Reign quarterback Brendan Malice showed “surgical efficiency”, according to a Flag Football Association press release, while BTA’s Abdull Patterson displayed promising potential as quarterback despite the loss.
The women’s non-contact games saw the Vixens make a strong debut, shutting out Nelson’s Athletics 12-0, another debuting squad, in game three.
The Vixens were led by the strategic sibling duo of coach Simon Rivers and quarterback Kim Rivers.
After a five-year break, Anya Edun returned to the field, bringing her offensive chops to Nelson’s Athletics which includes several newcomers.
Later, the I’Reign Ladies edged out long-time rivals Lynx in a thrilling 12-9 defensive battle.
I’Reign Ladies quarterback Lisa Malice led a decisive game-winning drive, while Latoya Cover of the Lynx was a standout with exceptional defensive play.
The men’s contact division opened with I’Reign dominating the Spartans 18-0. Paul Chin and Ramon Sealy were offensive standouts for the team with Adrian Ebanks of Spartans showing encouraging signs of potential for the young team.
The day concluded with the highly anticipated ‘Game of the Week’ between the defending champion Titans and the Cobras in the men’s contact division.
Cobras led 19-18 with just under a minute to go when Will Peguero, one of Titans’ quarterbacks, led a clutch final drive, connecting with Andrew Antonysraj for the game-winning touchdown with just nine seconds left.
Douglas Henkis sealed the 25-19 victory for the Titans, breaking up a perfectly thrown bomb from John Kanaroski in the end zone on the Cobras’ final attempt.
Will Peguero, flag football president, told the Compass, “The energy on opening day was electric, and it’s clear that players, coaches, and fans alike have been eager for the return of organised competition. This league continues to grow in quality and depth each season, and it’s been amazing to see new talent emerging alongside some of the league’s most experienced veterans.”
He added, “Our expectations this year are high, not just in terms of on-field performance, but in creating a structured, inclusive, and community-driven environment that elevates the sport of flag football in the Cayman Islands. We’ve expanded formats, welcomed new teams, and are investing in player development across divisions. That momentum is really going to set the tone for the season.”
Peguero says the significance of the league goes beyond the scoreboard as it provides a platform for athletic development, mentorship and community building while forging confidence, discipline and team spirit.
Playoffs and finals games are set for 6 Sept. at the Ed Bush field to close off the annual league.
