Story Written by: Christopher Simmons @ CHSAANow.com
AURORA — Few programs in Colorado flag football have risen faster than Chaparral High School. The Wolverines have developed into one of the state's most exciting and cohesive teams, built on belief, community, and a shared love of the game.
For his leadership and the team's impressive performance, head coach Lance Petrillo has been named CHSAA's Denver Broncos High School Flag Coach of the Week.
Throughout the season, a Broncos Coach of the Week will be selected for both tackle and flag football. All coach of the week nominees will be celebrated at a Denver Broncos game.
Interview with Lance Petrillo:
How would you describe your coaching style, and what values have you emphasized most as you've helped build Chaparral's flag football program from the ground up?
LP: I'd say my coaching style is grounded in encouragement. My goal has always been to build these girls up and make them feel like they're on top of the world. I tell them all the time that mistakes are part of the game, and that's OK. We've worked hard to create an atmosphere that's loose, fun, and free, one where they're not afraid to take chances or make mistakes. I want it to feel like a family and a community. I really emphasize respect for opponents, officials, and each other, because without them, there is no game. The values that come to mind are determination and drive, because nothing worth having comes easy. Anything that has real value takes effort and humility.
How did you first get involved with Chaparral's flag football team, and what inspired you to take on the challenge of leading a new program like this?
LP: I was lucky enough to have a freshman daughter during the pilot year of flag football, and she decided to play. She loved it, and football has always been my favorite sport, so I started watching and got hooked. When I learned that Chaparral was looking for a head coach, I thought it was probably a long shot, but I applied anyway. One thing led to another, and I was honored to be offered the job. What's made it so special is getting to build a program from the ground up. It was a blank slate, and I could implement everything I envisioned for a program. The buy-in from our girls, families, and community has been incredible, and that collective support has been a huge part of why we've been so successful so quickly.
What kind of growth have you seen in your players, both in skill and confidence, that has helped put the program in this playoff position?
LP: The growth has been unbelievable. They're stronger, faster, and smarter. We hit the weight room hard this offseason and worked a lot on speed and agility, and the results are showing on both sides of the ball. Even more than that, though, they've grown in confidence. I constantly tell them, "Take chances. Don't play it safe." When they started doing that and trusting themselves, our defense really transformed. One of my favorite moments this season came in a tight game against Arvada West. We called an audible at the line, and the girls executed it perfectly for a first down in a crucial moment. It was such a proud coaching moment, to see them thinking, adapting, and believing in themselves like that.
What have been some of the most rewarding or defining moments of this season that made you feel the program is really taking the next step?
LP: There have been a few, but one really stands out. We were playing a team that was struggling, and my girls made it a point to encourage them; helping them up after plays and cheering them on. Eventually, the game was called at halftime, and my players asked if they could go to the other locker room to offer encouragement. That came completely from them, not from me or my assistants. It was such a powerful moment of sportsmanship and character. It reminded me that we're not just building a program; we're helping build the sport of flag football in Colorado.
Flag football has exploded in popularity across Colorado. What makes this sport so special to you personally, and why do you think Chaparral has been able to build a successful program so quickly?
LP: It's special for three big reasons. First, I get to coach my daughters, that's an incredible blessing. Second, I'm a lifelong educator and a math teacher, so working with students in a new athletic setting feels natural and deeply rewarding. Third, we've had tremendous support from our school and community. When people ask why Chaparral has been so successful, I tell them every program is like a recipe, and I've been given some amazing ingredients. From our players and families to our AD, teachers, and even our school security staff, everyone's been all in. That collective support means everything.
This year's team has reached the semifinals as the No. 7 seed. How has team chemistry and leadership from your players helped the team overcome challenges, and what role do you see them playing as you prepare for this high-stakes matchup?
LP: Every team faces adversity, and we've had our share. But every time we've faced a challenge, we've come out stronger. I can see it in their eyes now, they believe nothing can stop them. That belief used to come from me as a coach, but now it's coming from within them. They've turned external motivation into internal belief, and that's what great teams do. They're not just physically ready for big games; they're mentally ready, too.
What do you hope your players take away from their time in this program, both on and off the field?
LP: I want them to realize how special this is. So few athletes ever get to experience what they're experiencing right now, a Final Four run and a banner that will hang in the gym forever. When they come back years from now and see that banner, I want them to feel proud and say, "That's my team. We did that." More than anything, I hope they leave with lifelong friendships and a sense of pride in being part of something bigger than themselves. They've built something here that will last.
