October 26, 2026 — In the last four seasons, McEachern's Flag Football team has made the state quarterfinals every year. They won the Division 4 state championship in 2024, and were the Division 5 state runners-up last season (2025). This year, they are ranked first overall in their division and second in the state. They are currently 8-0 and piling up impressive numbers behind their senior leader Ava Couzens in their quest for a second state title.
Head Coach Jake Burgdorf is a big part of the Lady Indians' success on the gridiron. A former football coach, Burgdorf took over the McEachern Flag program in 2022. Before his team's doubleheader with Moody and Blessed Trinity, Coach Burgdorf's overall record with the team was 98-6. In the first game of the evening, the Lady Indians handed Moody—a top-three team from Alabama—a 26-7 loss. After the break between games, McEachern returned to the field and notched another three-possession victory over Blessed Trinity, 28-6. It earned Coach Burgdorf his 100th career victory.
"I'm the head coach, so I get all the glory, but it's really about the kids and our assistant coaches. They do a phenomenal job," Coach Burgdorf said after the win. "They have bought into everything we do. We are where we are because of how serious the girls and the coaches take it."
Coach Burgdorf's coaching philosophy balances high standards with encouragement, challenging players to improve while supporting them along the way.
"We coach them hard, and we love on them," he said about his expectations on and off the field. "I treat this exactly like a regular football program. We film every practice; we watch film with the girls every day. All of our coaches either coach football or they played flag. Everyone on our coaching staff understands the game at a very high level."
That attention to preparation and detail has helped establish a foundation for continued success.
"Coach Burgdorf is an exceptional coach whose dedication and commitment to his athletes are truly commendable," said McEachern Athletic Director Tina Hadley. "His impact on the growth and success of the girls flag football team at McEachern has been remarkable. His passion for the sport is evident in every aspect of his program, from the way he develops his athletes to the culture he fosters."
His dedication and commitment to his students extend beyond the field to his math classroom, making him a much-loved and appreciated staff member for the entire school.
"His enthusiasm, leadership, and genuine investment in his players and students make him a tremendous asset to McEachern," AD Hadley said proudly.
As flag football continues to expand across the country, Coach Burgdorf sees a bright future for the sport, predicting that more states and colleges will embrace the game. His 100th win marks an important achievement for the McEachern program and the players and coaches whose commitment has helped make it possible.
Congratulations, Coach Burgdorf and McEachern Flag Football!
