Varsity football player crowned Homecoming Queen

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - Mary Ford Fitzjurls, the starting kicker for the Frederica Academy Knights, was crowned the 2025 Homecoming Queen at the halftime ceremony of last night’s football game against Brookwood Academy on September 19, 2025.

In a press release, the school states, "Frederica Academy is proud to announce the school’s first FA football player to be named Homecoming Queen."

"As the only female player on the Frederica Academy football team, she has defied expectations and earned the respect of her teammates, coaches, and her classmates who elected her this year’s Homecoming Queen."

The release calls Fitzjurls “a trailblazer on and off the field” and says that "Mary Ford not only made history as the first female kicker on the school’s football team, but she is also a three-time state champion soccer player and two-time GIAA AAA Player of the Year."

"Her exceptional achievements reflect her dedication, athleticism, and passion for breaking barriers."

The Knights defeated the Brookwood Warriors 42-13. The release also states Mary Ford nailed four extra points and landed her kickoffs as deep as the 15-yard line.

Mary Ford has been an invaluable part of our football team.

Her work ethic and leadership have earned her the respect of everyone in our program.

She’s an incredible athlete and an even more remarkable person.

Her selection as Homecoming Queen is just another testament to her character and accomplishments.

We couldn’t be more proud of her.

Brandon Derrick, Head Football Coach at Frederica Academy

Next fall, Fitzjurls will continue her athletic journey at Wellesley College in Massachusetts, where she has committed to play soccer at the collegiate level.