AJ Goncalves is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Hamilton High School for AZPreps365.com

CHANDLER— For a football team to thrive, the quarterback needs to know how to lead a group. Through the support of her father and the belief that she is a quarterback, sophomore Marlie Philips has become the face of Hamilton girls' flag football. 

Through 16 games in the 2025 season, Philips has thrown for 80 touchdown passes, and the Huskies have a 16-0, undefeated record. 

At the beginning of her career, Philips started as a receiver, but she always loved being a quarterback more. 

“I love having the game in my hands,” Philips said. “I want to be the one to say, ‘either I helped win or it’s on me.’” 

The story of Philips began with her playing catch with her father, Sam, in their front yard, which led to recreational leagues and eventually competitive tournaments in Arizona. 

Marlie said her father has been her biggest supporter and mentor. She said he has been involved from Day 1, showing up to every game, helping his daughter continue to develop. 

“Marlie has had a lot of ups and downs with flag football,” Sam Philips said. “There have been a lot of folks to tell her ‘she is not a quarterback, she is a receiver.’” 

In addition to her physical development, she has also grown mentally since moving to high school. Philips works closely with Coach Matt Stone, exchanging notes and talking football. 

“She is always thinking long term,” Stone said. “When you see her play on the field, that is why, when things go south, she is so calm.” 

This season, Philips has had a bigger say in offensive playcalling. 

“This year, it’s been a big step mentally,” Philips said. “I can actually change plays at the line now.” 

Philips father has seen Marlie watching tape for years. 

“Even as an eight-year-old quarterback, whether we had a good or bad game, one of the first things we’d do to reflect on it was breaking down film,” Sam Philips said. “Before we even celebrate a win, she is asking me, ‘Hey, Dad, can you send me the film when you get a second?’” 

Philips' leadership shows not only in the huddle during games, but also on the practice field, where she sets the tone. 

“We want to make sure we are perfecting every route. I am a big perfectionist, and I want to put these girls in a position to win,” Philips said. “It’s about making the people better around you.” 

Above all, Philips and the Huskies take pride in being a dominant team. 

“We emphasize putting our foot down,” Philips said. “We love to be confidence killers.” 

The story of Philips is one of great triumph. The bottom line, according to Sam Philips, is simple: “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.”