Audrey Haltiwanger Inspires With Historic Debut for MSD Football

by Matt Rothman September 16, 2026

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Audrey Haltiwanger Inspires With Historic Debut for MSD Football 6

Audrey Haltiwanger kicks an extra point held by Ben Goldman. {Matt Rothman}

The Marjory Stoneman Douglas football team has a unique addition to its roster: its second-ever female kicker.

Just five years after Kelly Feber made history as the first female to kick an extra point for the program, Audrey Haltiwanger followed in her footsteps, adding three extra points in her first-ever tackle football game against Coral Springs High School, which ended 52-2.

“I was honestly more excited than scared,” Haltiwanger said. “In my mind, everyone and everything was so loud until I stepped onto the field, and then it got quiet. I’ve been on the field playing before, but not like this.”

The opportunity to become a kicker began when Coach Baldwin suggested that Haltiwanger try out for the position. What started as a simple idea quickly became something she was determined to pursue. Knowing few girls have taken on the role, Haltiwanger wanted to challenge herself, raise the standard, and prove she belonged on the field like anyone else.

“She’s a stud, and I am so proud of her,” head coach Chris Baldwin said. “She’s a high academic girl and an all-around athlete, as well as being a confident young lady who plays with her heart.”

Haltiwanger’s athletic background has played a major role in her success. She has been playing club soccer for more than a decade and has competed at the varsity level since her freshman year. She had always wanted to try flag football, and after finally giving it a chance during her freshman year of high school, she quickly found another sport she loved.

Since then, Haltiwanger has become a double varsity starter for four consecutive years. Her experiences in both soccer and flag football have strengthened her appreciation for her teammates and the sports she has dedicated so much of her life to.

She also hopes her journey can inspire younger athletes to step outside their comfort zones. Haltiwanger encourages kids who may be nervous about trying something new to take the opportunity when it comes, even if they might make mistakes or fail.

“You may only get one shot, so you should take it,” Haltiwanger said. “You have to remember it is okay to mess up and it is okay to fail. It happens to everyone. But you can’t get to achieve your dreams without going through the hard times.”

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Matt Rothman

Matt Rothman is a 2018 graduate from Florida Gulf Coast University receiving his bachelor’s degree in journalism and then graduated from the University of Florida as a graduate student.