Danielle McCartan, a popular WFAN talk-show host, is gaining a fresh perspective as the new flag football coach at Indian Hills High School in New Jersey. Despite the team’s recent struggles, McCartan’s passion for the sport shines through both on the field and on the airwaves.
A radio star steps onto the field
The Indian Hills girls flag football team is getting rare attention for a high school team. They are often mentioned on a major sports radio station. While the team is still searching for its first win after a close 13-12 loss to Fair Lawn last week, the excitement around them is growing.
Danielle McCartan, who hosts her own show on WFAN and Infinity Sports Network, talks often about her experiences coaching. She explains that flag football is becoming very popular, especially in the Northeast. She shares that teams sponsored by the Jets, Giants, and Eagles are helping the sport grow fast and that it still has not reached its peak.
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A quick decision to become coach
McCartan’s journey into coaching happened by chance. While working a late-night shift at WFAN, she received a text from Julie Haledjian, the Indian Hills girls basketball coach, offering her the chance to lead the flag football team.
McCartan knew right away that she wanted to accept. She could not sleep after reading the message because she was so excited. This is the fourth season of club flag football in New Jersey, and McCartan had hoped to coach the team when the program first started. Even though she missed that first chance, she never gave up on the idea.
Today, McCartan balances four different roles, with her main job being a teacher. Still, she makes time for coaching because of her love for the game.
Earning respect from the players
The players at Indian Hills quickly saw that McCartan was serious about her role as a coach. Sophomore quarterback Julia DiMasi noticed that McCartan started working hard right away and treated the job with great respect.
Senior Bella Rapp also shared her appreciation for McCartan’s knowledge. She said that McCartan comes from a real football background, not from another sport. That experience makes a big difference for the team.
The players trust McCartan’s leadership because they know she truly understands the game.
Bringing NFL-level advice to high school football
McCartan’s strong connections in the football world have already helped her coaching journey. Shortly after accepting the job, she attended a Tom Coughlin Jay Fund event, where she met former New York Giants Super Bowl champion Kevin Boothe.
She asked him for advice on coaching young players. He shared that a jet sweep play is often very successful in flag football. McCartan took that advice to heart and uses her NFL-level insights to help her team.
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The fast rise of flag football
Flag football is growing rapidly across the United States. In recent years, the NFL has invested heavily in youth programs, especially for girls. The New York Jets and New York Giants now sponsor local teams in New Jersey, giving more young athletes a chance to play.
In a major move, flag football was approved for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. This decision will give the sport even more visibility and attract new players around the world.
Experts believe that flag football will soon become one of the most popular youth sports in America. Schools and community programs are expanding, creating new chances for scholarships and even professional opportunities.
Building the future at Indian Hills
Despite being winless so far this season, McCartan and the Indian Hills Braves are focused on the bigger picture. She is working to teach her players important lessons about teamwork, strategy, and resilience.
McCartan believes that victories will come in time. Her main goal right now is to build a strong team culture where every player loves the game and supports each other.
Her experience as a radio host helps her in coaching. She knows how to communicate clearly, stay calm under pressure, and encourage others to do their best. These skills are helping her guide the Braves through their early challenges.
The Indian Hills girls flag football team is full of spirit, and under McCartan’s leadership, they are determined to improve each week.
