This spring marks an exciting milestone for West Mifflin Area High School as it launches its very first girls’ flag football team. The newly formed program is more than just a new addition to the school’s athletic offerings—it’s a powerful statement about inclusion, opportunity, and growth for young women in sports.
The team is led by newly hired Head Coach Chris Capozzoli who brings 24 years of experience in interscholastic athletics, including time as a varsity football coach. With the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) officially sanctioning girls' flag football as a varsity sport beginning this fall, West Mifflin’s spring season serves as both a developmental platform and a launching pad for future competition.
This is a new experience for the athletes on the team. “Everyone receives equal repetitions and opportunities in practice,” Capozzoli explained. “A major point of emphasis for us is player and team growth and development.”
That focus on development is already producing results. In just their first three games, the team has shown meaningful progress—not only in understanding the game but in finding success on the field.
Strong leadership is also beginning to take shape, with seniors Mariah Lewis and Paige Nagel setting the tone, junior Nerual Parms making key contributions, and sophomores Tera Mitchell and Meleah Powell emerging as anchors on the JV squad.
The presence of both varsity and JV teams is key to the program’s vision. It ensures every athlete has room to grow while creating a pipeline of talent that will carry the team forward. Together, these players aren’t just building skills—they’re helping establish a legacy for girls' athletics at West Mifflin.
“Our athletes are constantly supporting one another and teaching each other throughout practices and games,” said Capozzoli. “Players are continuing to improve on communicating with one another and working together to achieve success, while having fun learning the game of flag football.
Coaches Build Confidence, Skills, and Culture
Behind the scenes, the coaching staff is working hard to provide structure and support for the team’s rapid development. Assistant Coach Tony Salopek, a longtime teacher and wrestling coach, brings a unique perspective despite being new to the sport.
As a former wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Passion and a 2011 West Mifflin alum, Assistant Coach Nicole Davis brings real-world experience and mentorship to her role as offensive specialist and JV coach. Her journey from local athlete to professional player gives her a unique ability to guide and grow into confident, skilled athletes—just like she once did.
The coaches’ goal is not just to teach the rules of the game, but to instill values of teamwork, discipline, and personal growth. Each practice is designed to be a learning experience. The emphasis is on fundamentals, communication, and embracing a “growth mindset.”
“Coaches should adapt to their teams,” Capozzoli noted. “With flag football being a new program, we are approaching each day with a growth mindset focusing on basic fundamentals and techniques.”
Looking ahead, the vision is long-term. Capozzoli and his staff are laying the groundwork for a sustainable, competitive program rooted in positivity and purpose. So far, that mission is paying off. The girls bring enthusiasm to every practice and game. And with strong leadership from both players and coaches, it’s clear this team is building more than just skills—it’s building a culture.