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Hometown pride is running high in Steilacoom—and all across Pierce County—as one of its own, Emeka Egbuka, has officially made it to the NFL. The former Steilacoom High School star wide receiver was selected 19th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft and is now a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Emeka’s journey from the small-town sidelines of Steilacoom to the national spotlight has inspired young athletes across the region. At Steilacoom High, he was already a standout—known for his speed, sharp instincts, and commitment to the game. But it was his focus, humility, and drive that truly set him apart.
He took that mindset with him to The Ohio State University, where he quickly became a key contributor and fan favorite. Over 50 games with the Buckeyes, Egbuka recorded a school-record 205 receptions, racked up 2,868 receiving yards, and scored 24 touchdowns. As a team captain in 2024, he demonstrated leadership just as much as talent, earning respect on and off the field.
At 6’1” and 205 pounds, Egbuka impressed NFL scouts with his athleticism, running a 4.49-second 40-yard dash and posting a 38-inch vertical leap. His reliable hands, crisp route running, and big-play ability made him a top-tier receiver prospect—and now, a key new weapon for the Buccaneers.
For fans back home who’ve followed his rise from Friday night lights to Big Ten showdowns, and now the NFL stage, Emeka's story is more than a sports success—it’s a reflection of what hard work, perseverance, and local support can achieve. Pierce County has always believed in him, and now the football world is starting to see why.
Keep your eye on the Buccaneers this season—because Emeka Egbuka is just getting started.
For the first time in over two decades, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) has added a new sport to its roster: Girls Flag Football. As of August 1, 2025, the sport will be officially sanctioned, giving female student-athletes across the state the opportunity to participate in structured competition—if their schools choose to offer the program.
This milestone reflects growing momentum behind the sport. For the past two years, the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Commission's Athlete of the Year program has recognized standout athletes from high schools with flag football programs. In 2024, Emerald Ridge High School claimed the Girls Flag Football State Championship. Though it was classified as a club event at the time, future championships will now fall under official WIAA sanctioning.
Nationally, interest in girls' flag football has surged. Participation has grown by 63% since 2019, making it one of the fastest-growing youth sports in the country. The NFL has played a key role in this growth by sponsoring leagues and collaborating with organizations like USA Football to expand the sport’s reach.
Flag football’s inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles has only amplified its popularity. Colleges across the country are now exploring the sport as an emerging varsity offering, potentially opening the door to scholarship opportunities for student-athletes.
For more details on Girls Flag Football and other decisions made during the WIAA Representative Assembly, visit wiaa.com/amendment-results-25.
Join us for our May Membership Meeting!
Thursday, May 8th
Social Hour: 11:30 AM | Meeting: 12:00–1:00 PM
Cheney Stadium
We’re proud to recognize the Athletes of the Year from the University of Puget Sound and Pacific Lutheran University! Don’t miss this special celebration of collegiate excellence.
Scholarship Applications Now Open!
The Stan Naccarato Sports & Civic Betterment Scholarship and the Clay Huntington Sports Broadcasting Scholarship are now accepting applications! Each scholarship awards $2,500 to deserving students.
To learn more and apply, visit our website
Click on the "Awards" tab in the top ribbon, then select "Scholarships."
Don't miss this opportunity!