By Pradyun Yeddula and Aditya Chaudhari
Staff Writers
On September 22nd, 2026, two flag football teams – BASIS Shavano and IDEA Hidden Meadow – knew only one would win and secure a spot in the playoffs.
Pink accented the players’ flags and jerseys continuing the theme of Homecoming week. The BASIS Seniors – Yazan H., Michael O., Jehan H., Aaron S., Kevin G., Avery M., Santhosh M. and Fahnwi T. were eager to win on this important night. Senior quarterback Yazan stated, “This team has the best chemistry I have played with in my entire high school career.” The Shavano team came into senior night with a record of 2-3-1 (2 wins, 3 losses, 1 tie), meaning this game was a must-win for BASIS.
BASIS put in Michael O. for a senior night tribute due to an upcoming surgery he was set to undergo a few days after the game. He had a big start in the first drive with a screen pass to freshman John W., leading to a significant yardage gain. He finished the drive by scoring a brilliant touchdown with a shovel pass. The Hidden Meadow team dealt back, taking the lead on a deep pass not long after they connected on a 2-point conversion, starting the second offensive drive. The BASIS team worked harmoniously, connecting on several short stride passes, in addition to a frequent run play and scored a second touchdown on yet another shovel pass, this time to senior Aaron S.
However, the offense failed to convert on the 2-point conversion. The score was 16-12, with Hidden Meadow on top. The score remained the same at halftime. Coach Rodriguez was furious at the defense during the halftime meeting. Entering the second half, the team had a renewed spirit; the defense focused on the long passes.
The offense also continued blazing. After an approximate two yards with a short slant completion to junior receiver Keshav L., the BASIS offense found themselves in the red zone where senior quarterback Yazan H. looked for his go-to goal line receiver, freshman John W, for a touchdown pass completion. BASIS was now ahead 18-16.
With a crucial two-point conversion on the line, Coach Rodriguez decided to play senior safety Avery M. at receiver. That decision paid off as quarterback Yazan H. found him on a beautiful slant through the seams, and BASIS went up 20-16.
With under four minutes left in the game, the Hidden Meadow offense was determined to score. Similarly, the BASIS defense was just as eager to stop them.
However, after many missed flag pulls, the Hidden Meadow offense was suddenly at the five-yard line, scoring an impressive passing touchdown with two minutes left and winning the game 22-20.
While Senior Night had its great moments, the Dragons ultimately lost. The team had its final game on Monday, October 19, 2026, and finished the season 3-6.
