Lara Appelbaum, head coach of the Esperanza Academy Charter School girls flag football team, was named the first Philadelphia Eagles Girls Flag Football High School Coach of the Week for the 2026 season, according to an April 16 announcement.
The recognition highlights efforts to grow girls flag football in local schools and underscores Appelbaum’s commitment both on and off the field. The award comes as interest in flag football continues to expand nationally, with organizations like the Eagles supporting youth sports initiatives. The Eagles operate as a professional American football team in the National Football League and maintain their base in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, according to their official website.
Appelbaum is deeply involved with flag football beyond coaching; she also plays on Saturdays and serves as a back judge for NFL Flag League games on Sundays. “This is a new sport for most of us, so we are learning and growing together,” Appelbaum said. “I believe leadership means being willing to grow alongside your team, so I have taken it upon myself to become a player of the sport, as well.” She added that gaining experience from multiple perspectives helps her be a better coach: “So being a player, being a referee, you get to see all sides of it.”
Despite not having won any games this season yet—her teams went 2-6 in her first year and 4-4 last year—Appelbaum said she feels honored by this recognition: “I’m being seen even though I’ve never really had a winning season…the love that I bring is felt and seen.” She credited assistant coach Joan Rice for helping build team culture: “She’s the yin to my yang…This program wouldn’t be what it is if she weren’t recognized as well.”
Appelbaum emphasized building community among players from different backgrounds. “We champion each other…it’s really about building up the community instead of tearing it down,” she said. She noted that seniors support freshmen and students from various groups interact positively through participation on her team.
Academic growth remains central for Appelbaum’s athletes: “I currently have a 100 percent graduation rate among my starting players…including several who are enrolled in early college programs.” One former player earned a partial scholarship at Chestnut Hill College; others are pursuing similar opportunities with her support.
As reported by their official website, the Eagles exert cultural influence by drawing fans locally and nationally through games, media coverage, merchandise sales, news offerings, ticketing services and fan engagement since entering professional football in 1933.
Looking ahead, Appelbaum hopes her work continues making an impact beyond wins or losses: fostering family-like bonds within her team while maintaining high expectations both academically and athletically.
