In a world where sports often have gendered expectations, Anja Remolina stands out as a trailblazer. As the first girl to join the varsity football team at Kennesaw Mountain High School, her story is not just about playing football; it’s about challenging norms, changing perceptions, and proving that passion and talent know no gender.
Anja’s love for aggressive play and her desire to tackle gender stereotypes in sports fueled her ambition to join the football team. “Football has always been seen as a male sport, but I wanted to show that women can do it too and succeed just as much,” she told me over the phone.

However, despite feeling the weight of being different, Anja’s spirit has remained unbroken. People are often surprised to learn she has been on the football team since her sophomore year.

Her journey took a pivotal turn during her first game against South Cobb. Anja’s performance was spectacular. She made a field goal that earned her the respect of her teammates, a moment that marked the beginning of her acceptance into the team. “The other players slapped my helmet as they celebrated,” Anja recalls.

Her coach, Coach Parker, has been a vocal advocate for her, believing in her ability to excel. The head coach, Coach Carmean, has four daughters of his own and finds joy in the opportunity to watch Anja exceed expectations. While he has no sons of his own, Carmean says the boys on the team are his sons, but since Anja is the only girl, she is, ironically, his favorite “son.”

Off the field, Anja’s family has been her unwavering pillar of support. Her father has backed her ambitions from the very start. Although her mother initially had concerns about her safety, she, too, has become an avid supporter. Demonstrating their pride, her family created custom shirts that read, “My Daughter Can Kick,” while her brother wore one proclaiming, “My Sister Can Kick.” They all love watching her play.

Despite the challenges, Anja remains focused on her dream of playing football in college. She has shown that with determination, support, and unwavering belief in oneself, any goal is achievable. Anja’s story will undoubtedly pave the way for future generations of girls in sports, proving that they, too, can kick down the doors of opportunity and success.