Gainesville High School Senior Brooke Zeller makes history with selection to the Women’s National Football Conference’s Avengers

Press release from the Women’s National Football Conference

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Gainesville High School senior Brooke Zeller is making history after being selected to play for the Avengers of the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC) — one of the nation’s premier leagues for women’s tackle football.

Zeller, known for her leadership, determination, and passion for the game, has earned the opportunity to compete at the next level. The WNFC features top female football players from across the United States and is recognized for its mission to expand opportunities for women in sports.

“I’ve always tried to leave everything on the field,” said Zeller. “That mindset — and the support of my family, coaches, teammates, and community — has shaped who I am today.”

Zeller’s journey to the WNFC has been years in the making. In ninth grade, she met WNFC founder Odessa Jenkins, whose leadership and dedication to advancing women in football made a lasting impression on her. Over the years, Zeller was invited to and attended several of the WNFC’s “Got Her Back” camps, designed to empower and develop young female athletes through mentorship, skill-building, and teamwork.

During these camps, Zeller also met Avengers coaches Chelly Hewitt and Rocky Phillips, along with several Avengers players, experiences that strengthened her love for the game and inspired her to continue pursuing football at a higher level. Those connections and opportunities helped shape her journey — from a passionate student-athlete to a history-making player.