MISHAWAKA, Ind. (WNDU) - Under the Friday Night Lights, a pair of braids slipped from beneath a Mishawaka helmet — a small detail that marked a big moment in school history.

On Sept. 19, sophomore Hope Spitaels wasn’t just another player lining up on the offensive line. She was the first female to ever take the field in a varsity football game for the Cavemen.

As an offensive lineman, she faces some of the toughest players on the field. But she meets every challenge head-on.

“The nerves are there until I actually go out on the field and then my mind sets in,” Spitaels says.

Spitaels decided she wanted to play football at the end of sixth grade. There wasn’t any special reason — she’s just always had a naturally competitive spirit.

Although the sophomore is currently on the JV team, sh

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