BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Kern County Crusaders established themselves in Bakersfield in 2016 and are now just one month away from their season.

The Crusaders play in the Women's Football Association.

“They are mothers, daughters, teachers, they’re students, they’re everything a man is except they are women playing a sport that people are questioning them about," said defensive coordinator, Ryan Brandon.

“When you first tell them, 'hey, come to my games,' they’re like, 'okay, Powder Puff, flag?' I'm like, 'no, full on tackle,' then I have to show them a picture to prove it," said football player Stephanie Powell.

The Crusaders are looking for more women to put on a helmet this season for them. They say anybody can come out and play.

“I've got 12 ladies out here today that have never played the game of football before and we’re on our second month of practice, they’re loving it and they get better every day," said Brandon.

Last season, the Crusaders went 4-4 in the WFA, just one game shy of playoffs, and this season they hope to make it further.

If you are interested in the Crusaders, you can visit their Facebook Page, Kern County Crusaders.