Girls High School Flag Football is on the rise. With flag football sweeping the nation, the sport is expanding at an unprecedented rate. Schools across the country are recognizing the value of flag football as an official high school sport, paving the way for more girls to compete, earn college scholarships, and make history on the field.As of the spring of 2026, over 40 states are offering girls high school football programs with 23 states that have officially state sanctioned championships. States like Florida, California and New York are leading the way, proving that flag football is here to stay.
This growth is the reason we are adding a HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS DIVISION to the East Texas Flag Football League this fall. We are adding this division to give local young ladies another opportunity to showcase their athletic ability and possibly earn a flag football scholarship that is now being offered by many universities and Jr. colleges.
The East Texas Flag Football League will use an 11v11 format. Our 11v11 format and 7v7 format played by most colleges, are both non-contact football formats, but serve different purposes. Our 11v11 format is a balanced, recreational game featuring not only running and passing. but blocking and rushing the quarterback also. It can be just for fun for the casual player but is also developmental for the serious athlete with college ambitions. In contrast, 7v7 is an intense, passing-only format heavily utilized to sharpen quarterback progression and defensive coverage skills.
However, 11-on-11 high school flag football is still considered a valuable steppingstone to college flag football. Not only do the full-team11v11 format provide game-like action for receivers, defensive backs and linemen, the format also sets up more natural conditions for quarterbacks. Also, we believe adding linemen does not affect the performance or evaluation of receivers or defensive backs. It only adds excitement to the game.
We use the 11v11 format for entertainment purposes. It closely resembles an actual tackle football game without the violence while a 7v7 format resembles a scrimmage between two schools. is less inclusive and we believe far less entertaining.
More than 240 Texas schools and nearly 5,500 athletes are involved in flag leagues in schools in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and El Paso.“That is not a trend,” Charlotte Jones, Cowboys co-owner and chief brand officer, said. “It’s an explosion. That kind of growth doesn’t happen because someone ran a marketing campaign. It happens because people believe support exists.”
If your school does not sponsor girls' flag football yet, you still can be recruitable, but you need competitive film and real points of contact. That can come from another sport, a club competition, a local league or a camp.
Why are more girls pursuing college flag football scholarships?The rise in girls pursuing college flag football scholarships is driven by rapidly expanding opportunities at the collegiate and high school levels. The NCAA has recommended the addition of a national flag football championship for all three divisions starting as early as the spring of 2028, and the University of Nebraska has already announced the first Power 4 flag football program.
WHAT THE DESIGNATIONS MEAN: Sanctioned States: Flag football is fully recognized as a vaThis growth is supported by increased sanctioning of the sport, which is now an officially recognized high school sport in 23 states. As more programs become available, younger athletes are increasingly viewing college play and athletic rsity sport by the state high school athletic association. In many states, the season culminates with an official state championship.Pilot Programs: States are running flag football pilot test seasons in select schools to evaluate full adoption as a sanctioned sport. Emerging sport: Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level. Girls high school flag football is experiencing explosive growth in 2026, officially recognized as an NCAA Emerging Sport and recently added to the 2028 Summer Olympics. Nationwide participation has surged past 42,000, with over 17 state associations fully sanctioning it. State-Level Milestones Texas: The UIL is actively developing an implementation plan to officially As of April 2026, girls' high school flag football is experiencing unprecedented growth, with 17 states officially sanctioning the sport and over 30 states offering programs. The high school landscape is rapidly shifting toward recognized varsity status in Texas. The UIL Legislative Council reviewed a formal proposal from the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans to sanction the sport for Class 5A and 6A schools. While UIL committees noted that full sanctioning won't happen for the 2026-27 school year, they are actively surveying superintendents and developing an implementation plan. Girls flag football is exploding across Texas, though the UIL has deferred sanctioning it as a varsity sport until the 2027-28 school year at the earliest. Backed by the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans, participation has grown from 600 to over 4,000 girls in the span of a year. High School & UIL UpdatesSanctioning Delay: The UIL athletic committee announced that flag football will not become an official sanctioned varsity sport for the 2026-27 school year, but is surveying superintendents for a potential approval in 2027-28. [1, 2]State Championship: The inaugural Girls Flag Football Texas State Championship was held at the University of North Texas’s DATCU Stadium. The Rockwall-Heath Lady Hawks defeated the Houston Memorial Lady Mustangs to claim the title. [1, 2]Legislative Push: State Representative Ron Reynolds is leading a push to make the sport an official UIL sanctioned varsity sport. Regional & Local Activity (Texas Focus)For players located in Henderson, TX, and the broader Texas region, flag football continues to gain major momentum. The Dallas Cowboys Girls Flag Football League has surpassed 100 participating high school teams, providing standardized curricula and elite competition. Teams compete in massive events like the Texas Girls Flag Football State Championship, co-sponsored by both the Cowboys and the Houston Texans. One of the most significant components of the advocacy effort has centered around the sport's growing college pathway. Houston Texans youth football manager Brett Stewart emphasized that his organization's annual showcase, held at the Houston Methodist Training Center, has played a key role in connecting athletes with collegiate programs and expanding scholarship opportunities. The 2026 event featured more than 33 colleges and over 228 female athletes competing in front of recruiters, including representatives from Division I programs. The showcase, launched in 2024, has quickly become one of the premier recruiting platforms for girls flag football in Texas. "Providing pathways to scholarships is at the forefront of what we do," Stewart said. TEXAS COLLEGES with Flag Football Programs: NCAA Division III: (ASC)These schools are launching varsity competition for the 2026–2027 academic year: East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, TX) Hardin-Simmons University (Abilene, TX) Howard Payne University (Brownwood, TX) McMurry University (Abilene, TX) Schreiner University (Kerrville, TX) University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (Belton, TX) NAIA: Texas Wesleyan University (Fort Worth, TX) – Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) (San Antonio, TX) Wiley University (Marshall, TX) NCAA: University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) (Arlington, TX) Texas Southern University (Houston, TX) Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View, TX) Dallas College - Richland Campus (Dallas, TX)
Flag football is now being recognized not only for its recreational value but also for its competitive spirit. With leagues and competitions sprouting up nationwide, the sport is providing more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in football at all levels.
One of the key factors behind the sport’s growing popularity is its accessibility. Unlike traditional tackle football, which requires significant equipment and resources, flag football can be played with minimal gear, making it an easier sport for girls and women to join. According to the National Flag Football organization, over 40% of youth flag football players in the U.S. are female, showcasing a trend toward more inclusive participation.
The Rise of Flag Football in the U.S. and BeyondIn recent years, flag football has been making waves in the sports world. A key milestone for the sport came in 2021 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially added flag football to the list of sports that will debut in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This decision is monumental, as it provides female athletes with a global platform to showcase their talents and abilities on the world stage.
How Flag Football Empowers Women and Girls:Flag football offers girls an opportunity to explore football in a low-contact and supportive environment, encouraging teamwork, leadership, and confidence. In many cases, it provides an alternative to other traditionally male-dominated sports, allowing girls to engage in a sport that emphasizes skill development over sheer physical strength. Thousands of girls are now playing high school flag football in Texas, and TAPPS has already moved forward with girls flag football competition. That matters because it shows the sport is no longer just an idea. It has structure, investment, and real staying power.
The biggest step still ahead is UIL sanctioning. Texas has not fully sanctioned girls flag football yet, even as other states already have. According to the latest national list, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington have sanctioned girls flag football. Texas is not there yet, but it is clearly moving in that direction.
That feels more like a matter of when than if. The participation is there. The support is there. The interest is there. Girls across Texas have already answered the question of whether they want to play football. They do. Whether you play in high school, club leagues, or rec tournaments, the pathway to college flag scholarship is more real than ever. With Olympic inclusion in 2028 on the horizon, the momentum is only going up. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren't previously available. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. What Emerging Sport Status Means for Girls Flag Football:For student-athletes, this decision is huge. Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren’t previously available in this space. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. This rapid expansion reflects growing interest nationwide, including strong momentum for girls flag football in Florida, where participation has surged at the youth and high school levels. Flag football is also debuting as an Olympic sport in the 2028 Olympic Games with a six-team tournament. This global spotlight further validates the sport’s legitimacy and long-term potential for aspiring athletes. What This Means Right NowSchools offering women’s flag football will immediately count toward the NCAA’s required 40 varsity programs threshold, the minimum needed for a sport to be considered for NCAA championship status.Over the next several years, colleges will build rosters, hire coaches, and expand competitive schedules as women’s flag football gains traction nationwide.If participation keeps growing, women’s flag football could reach full championship status within a decade, joining the ranks of other NCAA championship sports. Across the country, states are sanctioning girls’ flag football at the high school level at a rapid pace. Participation numbers continue to climb, opening doors for female athletes who want to compete in football while developing leadership, teamwork, and strategic skills. What was once seen primarily as a recreational activity is now becoming a competitive pathway with real scholarship and collegiate opportunities. Benefits of an All-Girls League: Confidence Boost: Girls play freely, building self-esteem without the pressure of coed competition. Role Models: Female coaches and players inspire leadership and teamwork. Safe Space: A girls-only setting fosters camaraderie and lifelong friendships. Skill Focus: Tailored coaching hones athleticism, agility, and football IQ. The Evolution of Girls Flag Football Flag football is taking over the world of sports. Over 20 million people, across more than 100 countries, are stepping onto the field to play flag football, which is the most inclusive and accessible way to play the game. The momentum for flag football continues to build in the U.S. and globally, fueled by broad participation at the youth level, a groundswell of demand from girls and women, and Olympic aspirations as we approach the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Future Outlook and OpportunitiesCollegiate Scholarships: With the rise of NAIA women's flag football programs, there are growing scholarship and collegiate-level recruiting opportunities for graduating high school athletes. Olympic Impact: The rapid development of the game at the high school level is a designated feeder system for talent leading into the LA 2028 Summer Olympic Games. [ KEY INDICATORS OF GROWTH: Rapid Participation Increase: The number of girls participating in high school flag football grew significantly in the 2024-2025 school year, with thousands more signing up and nearly 1,000 more schools offering it. State Sanctioning: Many state athletic associations (like in Florida, California, New York, and Ohio) now officially recognize girls' flag football as a varsity sport, culminating in state championships. NFL & Collegiate Support: All 32 NFL teams support youth flag football, and the NCAA's addition of women's flag football as an emerging sport creates clear collegiate pathways, including potential scholarships. Olympic Inclusion: Flag football's debut as an Olympic sport at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games further boosts its profile and legitimacy. WHY IT'S GROWING: Safety & Accessibility: It's a safer alternative to tackle football, attracting a broader range of athletes. Inclusivity: It provides opportunities for female athletes in a sport traditionally dominated by males. Collegiate Pathways: The NCAA's recognition and programs like the NAIA's support offer young women paths to play at the next level. The Future: Flag football is moving from pilot programs to established varsity status, with rules being standardized by the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations. Over 100 colleges and universities offered women’s flag football across the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA in Spring 2025, complementing thousands of teams in the club and intramural levels. Following this growth, flag football has established itself on the global stage with its Olympic debut in the LA28 Olympic Games and with aspirations for a professional flag football league to launch in the next few years. In a historic move for high school athletics, Dallas ISD, in partnership with the Dallas Cowboys, launched its first-ever girls flag football league this spring. “This program opens doors for girls to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. It also gives them the chance to compete, stay active, and even explore future opportunities in athletics,” said Paula Lewis, coach at Lincoln High School. All 22 Dallas ISD high schools participated in the inaugural season, and the impact of the league on Dallas ISD students is evident. The sport is more than just a new extracurricular activity; it is a platform for empowerment and opportunity. Nationally, women's flag football is experiencing rapid growth at both the high school and collegiate levels, with more than 300 teams expected to compete during the 2026-2027 academic year. Momentum for the sport continues to build as student interest expands and women's flag football prepares to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games. In January 2026, the NCAA voted to add women's flag football to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program, making a significant step toward official NCAA recognition.
For those ladies who are hesitant about playing football, you are not alone. It may feel a little intimidating to some at first but flag football is so much fun it grows on you quickly. The ladies are able to register and pay here online (Link Above). Also, just like the coed division, they are able to register as part of a team or individually and be placed on a team with other local players. (Other options available on 'FAQ" page) Whether you’re a player, parent, coach or administrator, now is the time to get involved! Learn more about how you can support flag football in your state, and be part of the fastest-growing girls sport in the country.
TEXAS WOMEN HIGH SCHOOL FLAG UPDATE:
FORT WORTH has become a national hot bed for girls high school flag football and has drawn the attention of college flag football coaches nationwide since the district added the sport in 2022. Texas Wesleyan is the first university in Texas to launch a varsity women’s flag football team that will begin competing in spring 2026. And since the university has already signed two recruits from Fort Worth it seems they've found a pipeline with Fort Worth ISD student-athletes.
HOUSTON ISD on April 14, 2025, announced the expansion of their Girls Flag Football Program to more than 80 high schools across Houston and Texas. Now in its third season, the program includes all 25 Houston ISD high schools, as well as high schools in Fort Bend, Alief, Stafford and Charter Schools in the Houston area.
DALLAS ISD is joining school districts across the state to form a high school girls flag football league. “We are thrilled that with girls’ flag football becoming an emerging sport at the collegiate level, the game can now provide these young women a path to continuing their education at a higher level as well.”
ARLINGTON ISD, with support from the Dallas Cowboys and a rapidly expanding league, this sport is opening new doors for young women in athletics. The excitement around high school girls’ flag football is growing fast!
CORPUS CHRISTI — A new opportunity is coming for young female athletes in Corpus Christi as the RISE Flag Football League prepares to launch its inaugural season this fall. The league will offer divisions for girls from 3rd grade to 10th grade and includes a seven-game season.
EL PASO – Region 19 Girls Flag Football officially began its pilot and championship season, the first ever of its kind in El Paso, on Monday, April 21, 2025. 39 teams representing eight school districts have the chance to compete throughout the season to grow the sport.
AUSTIN ISD is proud to announce the formation of a Girls Flag Football League, which will begin competitive play this Spring 2025, with support from the Dallas Cowboys organization.
DeSoto High School made history with the introduction of its first girls flag football team, joining multiple school districts across North Texas in expanding opportunities for female athletes. From football and basketball to track and field, DeSoto ISD has long been a powerhouse, and this latest addition offers another platform for student-athletes to showcase their skills.
EAST TEXAS cannot be too far off college coaches' radar, considering East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, Tx.) and Wiley University (Marshall, Tx.) have added women flag football plus the growth of the sport all across the state. We plan to make sure we are noticed by inviting each colleges' flag football coach to include the East Texas Flag Football League in their scouting and recruiting process. We will contact as many college and university flag football coaches as possible to open lines of communication. We will establish a network with these coaches and provide game film for their evaluation when warranted.
WHAT THE DESIGNATIONS MEAN: Sanctioned States: Flag football is fully recognized as a vaThis growth is supported by increased sanctioning of the sport, which is now an officially recognized high school sport in 23 states. As more programs become available, younger athletes are increasingly viewing college play and athletic rsity sport by the state high school athletic association. In many states, the season culminates with an official state championship.Pilot Programs: States are running flag football pilot test seasons in select schools to evaluate full adoption as a sanctioned sport. Emerging sport: Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level. Girls high school flag football is experiencing explosive growth in 2026, officially recognized as an NCAA Emerging Sport and recently added to the 2028 Summer Olympics. Nationwide participation has surged past 42,000, with over 17 state associations fully sanctioning it. State-Level Milestones Texas: The UIL is actively developing an implementation plan to officially As of April 2026, girls' high school flag football is experiencing unprecedented growth, with 17 states officially sanctioning the sport and over 30 states offering programs. The high school landscape is rapidly shifting toward recognized varsity status in Texas. The UIL Legislative Council reviewed a formal proposal from the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans to sanction the sport for Class 5A and 6A schools. While UIL committees noted that full sanctioning won't happen for the 2026-27 school year, they are actively surveying superintendents and developing an implementation plan. Girls flag football is exploding across Texas, though the UIL has deferred sanctioning it as a varsity sport until the 2027-28 school year at the earliest. Backed by the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans, participation has grown from 600 to over 4,000 girls in the span of a year. High School & UIL UpdatesSanctioning Delay: The UIL athletic committee announced that flag football will not become an official sanctioned varsity sport for the 2026-27 school year, but is surveying superintendents for a potential approval in 2027-28. [1, 2]State Championship: The inaugural Girls Flag Football Texas State Championship was held at the University of North Texas’s DATCU Stadium. The Rockwall-Heath Lady Hawks defeated the Houston Memorial Lady Mustangs to claim the title. [1, 2]Legislative Push: State Representative Ron Reynolds is leading a push to make the sport an official UIL sanctioned varsity sport. Regional & Local Activity (Texas Focus)For players located in Henderson, TX, and the broader Texas region, flag football continues to gain major momentum. The Dallas Cowboys Girls Flag Football League has surpassed 100 participating high school teams, providing standardized curricula and elite competition. Teams compete in massive events like the Texas Girls Flag Football State Championship, co-sponsored by both the Cowboys and the Houston Texans. One of the most significant components of the advocacy effort has centered around the sport's growing college pathway. Houston Texans youth football manager Brett Stewart emphasized that his organization's annual showcase, held at the Houston Methodist Training Center, has played a key role in connecting athletes with collegiate programs and expanding scholarship opportunities. The 2026 event featured more than 33 colleges and over 228 female athletes competing in front of recruiters, including representatives from Division I programs. The showcase, launched in 2024, has quickly become one of the premier recruiting platforms for girls flag football in Texas. "Providing pathways to scholarships is at the forefront of what we do," Stewart said. TEXAS COLLEGES with Flag Football Programs: NCAA Division III: (ASC)These schools are launching varsity competition for the 2026–2027 academic year: East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, TX) Hardin-Simmons University (Abilene, TX) Howard Payne University (Brownwood, TX) McMurry University (Abilene, TX) Schreiner University (Kerrville, TX) University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (Belton, TX) NAIA: Texas Wesleyan University (Fort Worth, TX) – Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) (San Antonio, TX) Wiley University (Marshall, TX) NCAA: University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) (Arlington, TX) Texas Southern University (Houston, TX) Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View, TX) Dallas College - Richland Campus (Dallas, TX)
Flag football is now being recognized not only for its recreational value but also for its competitive spirit. With leagues and competitions sprouting up nationwide, the sport is providing more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in football at all levels.
One of the key factors behind the sport’s growing popularity is its accessibility. Unlike traditional tackle football, which requires significant equipment and resources, flag football can be played with minimal gear, making it an easier sport for girls and women to join. According to the National Flag Football organization, over 40% of youth flag football players in the U.S. are female, showcasing a trend toward more inclusive participation.
The Rise of Flag Football in the U.S. and BeyondIn recent years, flag football has been making waves in the sports world. A key milestone for the sport came in 2021 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially added flag football to the list of sports that will debut in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This decision is monumental, as it provides female athletes with a global platform to showcase their talents and abilities on the world stage.
How Flag Football Empowers Women and Girls:Flag football offers girls an opportunity to explore football in a low-contact and supportive environment, encouraging teamwork, leadership, and confidence. In many cases, it provides an alternative to other traditionally male-dominated sports, allowing girls to engage in a sport that emphasizes skill development over sheer physical strength. Thousands of girls are now playing high school flag football in Texas, and TAPPS has already moved forward with girls flag football competition. That matters because it shows the sport is no longer just an idea. It has structure, investment, and real staying power.
The biggest step still ahead is UIL sanctioning. Texas has not fully sanctioned girls flag football yet, even as other states already have. According to the latest national list, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington have sanctioned girls flag football. Texas is not there yet, but it is clearly moving in that direction.
That feels more like a matter of when than if. The participation is there. The support is there. The interest is there. Girls across Texas have already answered the question of whether they want to play football. They do. Whether you play in high school, club leagues, or rec tournaments, the pathway to college flag scholarship is more real than ever. With Olympic inclusion in 2028 on the horizon, the momentum is only going up. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren't previously available. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. What Emerging Sport Status Means for Girls Flag Football:For student-athletes, this decision is huge. Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren’t previously available in this space. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. This rapid expansion reflects growing interest nationwide, including strong momentum for girls flag football in Florida, where participation has surged at the youth and high school levels. Flag football is also debuting as an Olympic sport in the 2028 Olympic Games with a six-team tournament. This global spotlight further validates the sport’s legitimacy and long-term potential for aspiring athletes. What This Means Right NowSchools offering women’s flag football will immediately count toward the NCAA’s required 40 varsity programs threshold, the minimum needed for a sport to be considered for NCAA championship status.Over the next several years, colleges will build rosters, hire coaches, and expand competitive schedules as women’s flag football gains traction nationwide.If participation keeps growing, women’s flag football could reach full championship status within a decade, joining the ranks of other NCAA championship sports. Across the country, states are sanctioning girls’ flag football at the high school level at a rapid pace. Participation numbers continue to climb, opening doors for female athletes who want to compete in football while developing leadership, teamwork, and strategic skills. What was once seen primarily as a recreational activity is now becoming a competitive pathway with real scholarship and collegiate opportunities. Benefits of an All-Girls League: Confidence Boost: Girls play freely, building self-esteem without the pressure of coed competition. Role Models: Female coaches and players inspire leadership and teamwork. Safe Space: A girls-only setting fosters camaraderie and lifelong friendships. Skill Focus: Tailored coaching hones athleticism, agility, and football IQ. The Evolution of Girls Flag Football Flag football is taking over the world of sports. Over 20 million people, across more than 100 countries, are stepping onto the field to play flag football, which is the most inclusive and accessible way to play the game. The momentum for flag football continues to build in the U.S. and globally, fueled by broad participation at the youth level, a groundswell of demand from girls and women, and Olympic aspirations as we approach the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Future Outlook and OpportunitiesCollegiate Scholarships: With the rise of NAIA women's flag football programs, there are growing scholarship and collegiate-level recruiting opportunities for graduating high school athletes. Olympic Impact: The rapid development of the game at the high school level is a designated feeder system for talent leading into the LA 2028 Summer Olympic Games. [ KEY INDICATORS OF GROWTH: Rapid Participation Increase: The number of girls participating in high school flag football grew significantly in the 2024-2025 school year, with thousands more signing up and nearly 1,000 more schools offering it. State Sanctioning: Many state athletic associations (like in Florida, California, New York, and Ohio) now officially recognize girls' flag football as a varsity sport, culminating in state championships. NFL & Collegiate Support: All 32 NFL teams support youth flag football, and the NCAA's addition of women's flag football as an emerging sport creates clear collegiate pathways, including potential scholarships. Olympic Inclusion: Flag football's debut as an Olympic sport at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games further boosts its profile and legitimacy. WHY IT'S GROWING: Safety & Accessibility: It's a safer alternative to tackle football, attracting a broader range of athletes. Inclusivity: It provides opportunities for female athletes in a sport traditionally dominated by males. Collegiate Pathways: The NCAA's recognition and programs like the NAIA's support offer young women paths to play at the next level. The Future: Flag football is moving from pilot programs to established varsity status, with rules being standardized by the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations. Over 100 colleges and universities offered women’s flag football across the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA in Spring 2025, complementing thousands of teams in the club and intramural levels. Following this growth, flag football has established itself on the global stage with its Olympic debut in the LA28 Olympic Games and with aspirations for a professional flag football league to launch in the next few years. In a historic move for high school athletics, Dallas ISD, in partnership with the Dallas Cowboys, launched its first-ever girls flag football league this spring. “This program opens doors for girls to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. It also gives them the chance to compete, stay active, and even explore future opportunities in athletics,” said Paula Lewis, coach at Lincoln High School. All 22 Dallas ISD high schools participated in the inaugural season, and the impact of the league on Dallas ISD students is evident. The sport is more than just a new extracurricular activity; it is a platform for empowerment and opportunity. Nationally, women's flag football is experiencing rapid growth at both the high school and collegiate levels, with more than 300 teams expected to compete during the 2026-2027 academic year. Momentum for the sport continues to build as student interest expands and women's flag football prepares to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games. In January 2026, the NCAA voted to add women's flag football to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program, making a significant step toward official NCAA recognition.
For those ladies who are hesitant about playing football, you are not alone. It may feel a little intimidating to some at first but flag football is so much fun it grows on you quickly. The ladies are able to register and pay here online (Link Above). Also, just like the coed division, they are able to register as part of a team or individually and be placed on a team with other local players. (Other options available on 'FAQ" page) Whether you’re a player, parent, coach or administrator, now is the time to get involved! Learn more about how you can support flag football in your state, and be part of the fastest-growing girls sport in the country.
TEXAS WOMEN HIGH SCHOOL FLAG UPDATE:
FORT WORTH has become a national hot bed for girls high school flag football and has drawn the attention of college flag football coaches nationwide since the district added the sport in 2022. Texas Wesleyan is the first university in Texas to launch a varsity women’s flag football team that will begin competing in spring 2026. And since the university has already signed two recruits from Fort Worth it seems they've found a pipeline with Fort Worth ISD student-athletes.
HOUSTON ISD on April 14, 2025, announced the expansion of their Girls Flag Football Program to more than 80 high schools across Houston and Texas. Now in its third season, the program includes all 25 Houston ISD high schools, as well as high schools in Fort Bend, Alief, Stafford and Charter Schools in the Houston area.
DALLAS ISD is joining school districts across the state to form a high school girls flag football league. “We are thrilled that with girls’ flag football becoming an emerging sport at the collegiate level, the game can now provide these young women a path to continuing their education at a higher level as well.”
ARLINGTON ISD, with support from the Dallas Cowboys and a rapidly expanding league, this sport is opening new doors for young women in athletics. The excitement around high school girls’ flag football is growing fast!
CORPUS CHRISTI — A new opportunity is coming for young female athletes in Corpus Christi as the RISE Flag Football League prepares to launch its inaugural season this fall. The league will offer divisions for girls from 3rd grade to 10th grade and includes a seven-game season.
EL PASO – Region 19 Girls Flag Football officially began its pilot and championship season, the first ever of its kind in El Paso, on Monday, April 21, 2025. 39 teams representing eight school districts have the chance to compete throughout the season to grow the sport.
AUSTIN ISD is proud to announce the formation of a Girls Flag Football League, which will begin competitive play this Spring 2025, with support from the Dallas Cowboys organization.
DeSoto High School made history with the introduction of its first girls flag football team, joining multiple school districts across North Texas in expanding opportunities for female athletes. From football and basketball to track and field, DeSoto ISD has long been a powerhouse, and this latest addition offers another platform for student-athletes to showcase their skills.
EAST TEXAS cannot be too far off college coaches' radar, considering East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, Tx.) and Wiley University (Marshall, Tx.) have added women flag football plus the growth of the sport all across the state. We plan to make sure we are noticed by inviting each colleges' flag football coach to include the East Texas Flag Football League in their scouting and recruiting process. We will contact as many college and university flag football coaches as possible to open lines of communication. We will establish a network with these coaches and provide game film for their evaluation when warranted.
Girls High School Flag Football Update
Girls High School Flag Football is on the rise. With flag football sweeping the nation, the sport is expanding at an unprecedented rate. Schools across the country are recognizing the value of flag football as an official high school sport, paving the way for more girls to compete, earn college scholarships, and make history on the field.As of the spring of 2026, over 40 states are offering girls high school football programs with 23 states that have officially state sanctioned championships. States like Florida, California and New York are leading the way, proving that flag football is here to stay.
This growth is the reason we are adding a HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS DIVISION to the East Texas Flag Football League this fall. We are adding this division to give local young ladies another opportunity to showcase their athletic ability and possibly earn a flag football scholarship that is now being offered by many universities and Jr. colleges.
The East Texas Flag Football League will use an 11v11 format. Our 11v11 format and 7v7 format played by most colleges, are both non-contact football formats, but serve different purposes. Our 11v11 format is a balanced, recreational game featuring not only running and passing. but blocking and rushing the quarterback also. It can be just for fun for the casual player but is also developmental for the serious athlete with college ambitions. In contrast, 7v7 is an intense, passing-only format heavily utilized to sharpen quarterback progression and defensive coverage skills.
However, 11-on-11 high school flag football is still considered a valuable steppingstone to college flag football. Not only do the full-team11v11 format provide game-like action for receivers, defensive backs and linemen, the format also sets up more natural conditions for quarterbacks. Also, we believe adding linemen does not affect the performance or evaluation of receivers or defensive backs. It only adds excitement to the game.
We use the 11v11 format for entertainment purposes. It closely resembles an actual tackle football game without the violence while a 7v7 format resembles a scrimmage between two schools. is less inclusive and we believe far less entertaining.
WHAT THE DESIGNATIONS MEAN:
Sanctioned States: Flag football is fully recognized as a varsity sport by the state high school athletic association. In many states, the season culminates with an official state championship.Pilot Programs: States are running flag football pilot test seasons in select schools to evaluate full adoption as a sanctioned sport.
Emerging sport: Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level.
Girls high school flag football is experiencing explosive growth in 2026, officially recognized as an NCAA Emerging Sport and recently added to the 2028 Summer Olympics. Nationwide participation has surged past 42,000, with over 17 state associations fully sanctioning it. State-Level Milestones Texas: The UIL is actively developing an implementation plan to officially
As of April 2026, girls' high school flag football is experiencing unprecedented growth, with 17 states officially sanctioning the sport and over 30 states offering programs.
More than 240 Texas schools and nearly 5,500 athletes are involved in flag leagues in schools in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and El Paso.“That is not a trend,” Charlotte Jones, Cowboys co-owner and chief brand officer, said. “It’s an explosion. That kind of growth doesn’t happen because someone ran a marketing campaign. It happens because people believe support exists.”
If your school does not sponsor girls' flag football yet, you still can be recruitable, but you need competitive film and real points of contact. That can come from another sport, a club competition, a local league or a camp.
The high school landscape is rapidly shifting toward recognized varsity status in Texas. The UIL Legislative Council reviewed a formal proposal from the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans to sanction the sport for Class 5A and 6A schools. While UIL committees noted that full sanctioning won't happen for the 2026-27 school year, they are actively surveying superintendents and developing an implementation plan.
Regional & Local Activity (Texas Focus)For players located in Henderson, TX, and the broader Texas region, flag football continues to gain major momentum. The Dallas Cowboys Girls Flag Football League has surpassed 100 participating high school teams, providing standardized curricula and elite competition. Teams compete in massive events like the Texas Girls Flag Football State Championship, co-sponsored by both the Cowboys and the Houston Texans.
One of the most significant components of the advocacy effort has centered around the sport's growing college pathway. Houston Texans youth football manager Brett Stewart emphasized that his organization's annual showcase, held at the Houston Methodist Training Center, has played a key role in connecting athletes with collegiate programs and expanding scholarship opportunities. The 2026 event featured more than 33 colleges and over 228 female athletes competing in front of recruiters, including representatives from Division I programs. The showcase, launched in 2024, has quickly become one of the premier recruiting platforms for girls flag football in Texas. "Providing pathways to scholarships is at the forefront of what we do," Stewart said.
TEXAS COLLEGES with Flag Football Programs:
NCAA Division III: (ASC)These schools are launching varsity competition for the 2026–2027 academic year:
East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, TX)
Hardin-Simmons University (Abilene, TX)
Howard Payne University (Brownwood, TX)
McMurry University (Abilene, TX)
Schreiner University (Kerrville, TX)
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (Belton, TX)
NAIA:
Texas Wesleyan University (Fort Worth, TX) –
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) (San Antonio, TX)
Wiley University (Marshall, TX)
NCAA:
University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) (Arlington, TX)
Texas Southern University (Houston, TX)
Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View, TX)
Dallas College - Richland Campus (Dallas, TX)
Key 2026 Updates & Milestones:NCAA Recognition: In January 2026, the NCAA officially added women’s flag football to its Emerging Sports for Women program across Divisions I, II, and III.Texas Expansion: The Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans are hosting the first-ever Girls Flag Football Texas State Championship in June 2026, featuring top teams from 200+ varsity-level clubs.
Flag football is now being recognized not only for its recreational value but also for its competitive spirit. With leagues and competitions sprouting up nationwide, the sport is providing more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in football at all levels.
One of the key factors behind the sport’s growing popularity is its accessibility. Unlike traditional tackle football, which requires significant equipment and resources, flag football can be played with minimal gear, making it an easier sport for girls and women to join. According to the National Flag Football organization, over 40% of youth flag football players in the U.S. are female, showcasing a trend toward more inclusive participation.
The Rise of Flag Football in the U.S. and BeyondIn recent years, flag football has been making waves in the sports world. A key milestone for the sport came in 2021 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially added flag football to the list of sports that will debut in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This decision is monumental, as it provides female athletes with a global platform to showcase their talents and abilities on the world stage.
How Flag Football Empowers Women and Girls:Flag football offers girls an opportunity to explore football in a low-contact and supportive environment, encouraging teamwork, leadership, and confidence. In many cases, it provides an alternative to other traditionally male-dominated sports, allowing girls to engage in a sport that emphasizes skill development over sheer physical strength. Thousands of girls are now playing high school flag football in Texas, and TAPPS has already moved forward with girls flag football competition. That matters because it shows the sport is no longer just an idea. It has structure, investment, and real staying power.
The biggest step still ahead is UIL sanctioning. Texas has not fully sanctioned girls flag football yet, even as other states already have. According to the latest national list, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington have sanctioned girls flag football. Texas is not there yet, but it is clearly moving in that direction.
That feels more like a matter of when than if. The participation is there. The support is there. The interest is there. Girls across Texas have already answered the question of whether they want to play football. They do. Whether you play in high school, club leagues, or rec tournaments, the pathway to college flag scholarship is more real than ever. With Olympic inclusion in 2028 on the horizon, the momentum is only going up. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren't previously available. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. What Emerging Sport Status Means for Girls Flag Football:For student-athletes, this decision is huge. Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren’t previously available in this space. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. This rapid expansion reflects growing interest nationwide, including strong momentum for girls flag football in Florida, where participation has surged at the youth and high school levels. Flag football is also debuting as an Olympic sport in the 2028 Olympic Games with a six-team tournament. This global spotlight further validates the sport’s legitimacy and long-term potential for aspiring athletes. What This Means Right NowSchools offering women’s flag football will immediately count toward the NCAA’s required 40 varsity programs threshold, the minimum needed for a sport to be considered for NCAA championship status.Over the next several years, colleges will build rosters, hire coaches, and expand competitive schedules as women’s flag football gains traction nationwide.If participation keeps growing, women’s flag football could reach full championship status within a decade, joining the ranks of other NCAA championship sports. Across the country, states are sanctioning girls’ flag football at the high school level at a rapid pace. Participation numbers continue to climb, opening doors for female athletes who want to compete in football while developing leadership, teamwork, and strategic skills. What was once seen primarily as a recreational activity is now becoming a competitive pathway with real scholarship and collegiate opportunities. Benefits of an All-Girls League: Confidence Boost: Girls play freely, building self-esteem without the pressure of coed competition. Role Models: Female coaches and players inspire leadership and teamwork. Safe Space: A girls-only setting fosters camaraderie and lifelong friendships. Skill Focus: Tailored coaching hones athleticism, agility, and football IQ. The Evolution of Girls Flag Football Flag football is taking over the world of sports. Over 20 million people, across more than 100 countries, are stepping onto the field to play flag football, which is the most inclusive and accessible way to play the game. The momentum for flag football continues to build in the U.S. and globally, fueled by broad participation at the youth level, a groundswell of demand from girls and women, and Olympic aspirations as we approach the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Future Outlook and OpportunitiesCollegiate Scholarships: With the rise of NAIA women's flag football programs, there are growing scholarship and collegiate-level recruiting opportunities for graduating high school athletes. Olympic Impact: The rapid development of the game at the high school level is a designated feeder system for talent leading into the LA 2028 Summer Olympic Games. [ KEY INDICATORS OF GROWTH: Rapid Participation Increase: The number of girls participating in high school flag football grew significantly in the 2024-2025 school year, with thousands more signing up and nearly 1,000 more schools offering it. State Sanctioning: Many state athletic associations (like in Florida, California, New York, and Ohio) now officially recognize girls' flag football as a varsity sport, culminating in state championships. NFL & Collegiate Support: All 32 NFL teams support youth flag football, and the NCAA's addition of women's flag football as an emerging sport creates clear collegiate pathways, including potential scholarships. Olympic Inclusion: Flag football's debut as an Olympic sport at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games further boosts its profile and legitimacy. WHY IT'S GROWING: Safety & Accessibility: It's a safer alternative to tackle football, attracting a broader range of athletes. Inclusivity: It provides opportunities for female athletes in a sport traditionally dominated by males. Collegiate Pathways: The NCAA's recognition and programs like the NAIA's support offer young women paths to play at the next level. The Future:Flag football is moving from pilot programs to established varsity status, with rules being standardized by the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations. Over 100 colleges and universities offered women’s flag football across the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA in Spring 2025, complementing thousands of teams in the club and intramural levels. Following this growth, flag football has established itself on the global stage with its Olympic debut in the LA28 Olympic Games and with aspirations for a professional flag football league to launch in the next few years. In a historic move for high school athletics, Dallas ISD, in partnership with the Dallas Cowboys, launched its first-ever girls flag football league this spring. “This program opens doors for girls to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. It also gives them the chance to compete, stay active, and even explore future opportunities in athletics,” said Paula Lewis, coach at Lincoln High School. All 22 Dallas ISD high schools participated in the inaugural season, and the impact of the league on Dallas ISD students is evident. The sport is more than just a new extracurricular activity; it is a platform for empowerment and opportunity. Nationally, women's flag football is experiencing rapid growth at both the high school and collegiate levels, with more than 300 teams expected to compete during the 2026-2027 academic year. Momentum for the sport continues to build as student interest expands and women's flag football prepares to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games. In January 2026, the NCAA voted to add women's flag football to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program, making a significant step toward official NCAA recognition. WHAT IT MEANS:Sanctioned States: Flag football is fully recognized as a varsity sport by the state high school athletic association. In many states, the season culminates with an official state championship. Pilot Programs: States are running flag football pilot test seasons in select schools to evaluate full adoption as a sanctioned sport
For those ladies who are hesitant about playing football, you are not alone. It may feel a little intimidating to some at first but flag football is so much fun it grows on you quickly. The ladies are able to register and pay here online (Link Above). Also, just like the coed division, they are able to register as part of a team or individually and be placed on a team with other local players. (Other options available on 'FAQ" page) Whether you’re a player, parent, coach or administrator, now is the time to get involved! Learn more about how you can support flag football in your state, and be part of the fastest-growing girls sport in the country.
TEXAS WOMEN HIGH SCHOOL FLAG UPDATE:
FORT WORTH has become a national hot bed for girls high school flag football and has drawn the attention of college flag football coaches nationwide since the district added the sport in 2022. Texas Wesleyan is the first university in Texas to launch a varsity women’s flag football team that will begin competing in spring 2026. And since the university has already signed two recruits from Fort Worth it seems they've found a pipeline with Fort Worth ISD student-athletes.
HOUSTON ISD on April 14, 2025, announced the expansion of their Girls Flag Football Program to more than 80 high schools across Houston and Texas. Now in its third season, the program includes all 25 Houston ISD high schools, as well as high schools in Fort Bend, Alief, Stafford and Charter Schools in the Houston area.
DALLAS ISD is joining school districts across the state to form a high school girls flag football league. “We are thrilled that with girls’ flag football becoming an emerging sport at the collegiate level, the game can now provide these young women a path to continuing their education at a higher level as well.”
ARLINGTON ISD, with support from the Dallas Cowboys and a rapidly expanding league, this sport is opening new doors for young women in athletics. The excitement around high school girls’ flag football is growing fast!
CORPUS CHRISTI — A new opportunity is coming for young female athletes in Corpus Christi as the RISE Flag Football League prepares to launch its inaugural season this fall. The league will offer divisions for girls from 3rd grade to 10th grade and includes a seven-game season.
EL PASO – Region 19 Girls Flag Football officially began its pilot and championship season, the first ever of its kind in El Paso, on Monday, April 21, 2025. 39 teams representing eight school districts have the chance to compete throughout the season to grow the sport.
AUSTIN ISD is proud to announce the formation of a Girls Flag Football League, which will begin competitive play this Spring 2025, with support from the Dallas Cowboys organization.
DeSoto High School made history with the introduction of its first girls flag football team, joining multiple school districts across North Texas in expanding opportunities for female athletes. From football and basketball to track and field, DeSoto ISD has long been a powerhouse, and this latest addition offers another platform for student-athletes to showcase their skills.
EAST TEXAS cannot be too far off college coaches' radar, considering East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, Tx.) and Wiley University (Marshall, Tx.) have added women flag football plus the growth of the sport all across the state. We plan to make sure we are noticed by inviting each colleges' flag football coach to include the East Texas Flag Football League in their scouting and recruiting process. We will contact as many college and university flag football coaches as possible to open lines of communication. We will establish a network with these coaches and provide game film for their evaluation when warranted.
Flag football is now being recognized not only for its recreational value but also for its competitive spirit. With leagues and competitions sprouting up nationwide, the sport is providing more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in football at all levels.
One of the key factors behind the sport’s growing popularity is its accessibility. Unlike traditional tackle football, which requires significant equipment and resources, flag football can be played with minimal gear, making it an easier sport for girls and women to join. According to the National Flag Football organization, over 40% of youth flag football players in the U.S. are female, showcasing a trend toward more inclusive participation.
The Rise of Flag Football in the U.S. and BeyondIn recent years, flag football has been making waves in the sports world. A key milestone for the sport came in 2021 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially added flag football to the list of sports that will debut in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This decision is monumental, as it provides female athletes with a global platform to showcase their talents and abilities on the world stage.
How Flag Football Empowers Women and Girls:Flag football offers girls an opportunity to explore football in a low-contact and supportive environment, encouraging teamwork, leadership, and confidence. In many cases, it provides an alternative to other traditionally male-dominated sports, allowing girls to engage in a sport that emphasizes skill development over sheer physical strength. Thousands of girls are now playing high school flag football in Texas, and TAPPS has already moved forward with girls flag football competition. That matters because it shows the sport is no longer just an idea. It has structure, investment, and real staying power.
The biggest step still ahead is UIL sanctioning. Texas has not fully sanctioned girls flag football yet, even as other states already have. According to the latest national list, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington have sanctioned girls flag football. Texas is not there yet, but it is clearly moving in that direction.
That feels more like a matter of when than if. The participation is there. The support is there. The interest is there. Girls across Texas have already answered the question of whether they want to play football. They do. Whether you play in high school, club leagues, or rec tournaments, the pathway to college flag scholarship is more real than ever. With Olympic inclusion in 2028 on the horizon, the momentum is only going up. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren't previously available. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. What Emerging Sport Status Means for Girls Flag Football:For student-athletes, this decision is huge. Emerging sport status means that colleges across the country will now be encouraged — and increasingly motivated — to sponsor women’s flag football at the varsity level. As high school girls flag football teams grow, so do opportunities for competition and scholarships that weren’t previously available in this space. According to the NCAA, as many as 60 programs are expected by spring 2026 and more schools planning launches in the coming years. This rapid expansion reflects growing interest nationwide, including strong momentum for girls flag football in Florida, where participation has surged at the youth and high school levels. Flag football is also debuting as an Olympic sport in the 2028 Olympic Games with a six-team tournament. This global spotlight further validates the sport’s legitimacy and long-term potential for aspiring athletes. What This Means Right NowSchools offering women’s flag football will immediately count toward the NCAA’s required 40 varsity programs threshold, the minimum needed for a sport to be considered for NCAA championship status.Over the next several years, colleges will build rosters, hire coaches, and expand competitive schedules as women’s flag football gains traction nationwide.If participation keeps growing, women’s flag football could reach full championship status within a decade, joining the ranks of other NCAA championship sports. Across the country, states are sanctioning girls’ flag football at the high school level at a rapid pace. Participation numbers continue to climb, opening doors for female athletes who want to compete in football while developing leadership, teamwork, and strategic skills. What was once seen primarily as a recreational activity is now becoming a competitive pathway with real scholarship and collegiate opportunities. Benefits of an All-Girls League: Confidence Boost: Girls play freely, building self-esteem without the pressure of coed competition. Role Models: Female coaches and players inspire leadership and teamwork. Safe Space: A girls-only setting fosters camaraderie and lifelong friendships. Skill Focus: Tailored coaching hones athleticism, agility, and football IQ. The Evolution of Girls Flag Football Flag football is taking over the world of sports. Over 20 million people, across more than 100 countries, are stepping onto the field to play flag football, which is the most inclusive and accessible way to play the game. The momentum for flag football continues to build in the U.S. and globally, fueled by broad participation at the youth level, a groundswell of demand from girls and women, and Olympic aspirations as we approach the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Future Outlook and OpportunitiesCollegiate Scholarships: With the rise of NAIA women's flag football programs, there are growing scholarship and collegiate-level recruiting opportunities for graduating high school athletes. Olympic Impact: The rapid development of the game at the high school level is a designated feeder system for talent leading into the LA 2028 Summer Olympic Games. [ KEY INDICATORS OF GROWTH: Rapid Participation Increase: The number of girls participating in high school flag football grew significantly in the 2024-2025 school year, with thousands more signing up and nearly 1,000 more schools offering it. State Sanctioning: Many state athletic associations (like in Florida, California, New York, and Ohio) now officially recognize girls' flag football as a varsity sport, culminating in state championships. NFL & Collegiate Support: All 32 NFL teams support youth flag football, and the NCAA's addition of women's flag football as an emerging sport creates clear collegiate pathways, including potential scholarships. Olympic Inclusion: Flag football's debut as an Olympic sport at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games further boosts its profile and legitimacy. WHY IT'S GROWING: Safety & Accessibility: It's a safer alternative to tackle football, attracting a broader range of athletes. Inclusivity: It provides opportunities for female athletes in a sport traditionally dominated by males. Collegiate Pathways: The NCAA's recognition and programs like the NAIA's support offer young women paths to play at the next level. The Future:Flag football is moving from pilot programs to established varsity status, with rules being standardized by the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations. Over 100 colleges and universities offered women’s flag football across the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA in Spring 2025, complementing thousands of teams in the club and intramural levels. Following this growth, flag football has established itself on the global stage with its Olympic debut in the LA28 Olympic Games and with aspirations for a professional flag football league to launch in the next few years. In a historic move for high school athletics, Dallas ISD, in partnership with the Dallas Cowboys, launched its first-ever girls flag football league this spring. “This program opens doors for girls to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. It also gives them the chance to compete, stay active, and even explore future opportunities in athletics,” said Paula Lewis, coach at Lincoln High School. All 22 Dallas ISD high schools participated in the inaugural season, and the impact of the league on Dallas ISD students is evident. The sport is more than just a new extracurricular activity; it is a platform for empowerment and opportunity. Nationally, women's flag football is experiencing rapid growth at both the high school and collegiate levels, with more than 300 teams expected to compete during the 2026-2027 academic year. Momentum for the sport continues to build as student interest expands and women's flag football prepares to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games. In January 2026, the NCAA voted to add women's flag football to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program, making a significant step toward official NCAA recognition. WHAT IT MEANS:Sanctioned States: Flag football is fully recognized as a varsity sport by the state high school athletic association. In many states, the season culminates with an official state championship. Pilot Programs: States are running flag football pilot test seasons in select schools to evaluate full adoption as a sanctioned sport
For those ladies who are hesitant about playing football, you are not alone. It may feel a little intimidating to some at first but flag football is so much fun it grows on you quickly. The ladies are able to register and pay here online (Link Above). Also, just like the coed division, they are able to register as part of a team or individually and be placed on a team with other local players. (Other options available on 'FAQ" page) Whether you’re a player, parent, coach or administrator, now is the time to get involved! Learn more about how you can support flag football in your state, and be part of the fastest-growing girls sport in the country.
TEXAS WOMEN HIGH SCHOOL FLAG UPDATE:
FORT WORTH has become a national hot bed for girls high school flag football and has drawn the attention of college flag football coaches nationwide since the district added the sport in 2022. Texas Wesleyan is the first university in Texas to launch a varsity women’s flag football team that will begin competing in spring 2026. And since the university has already signed two recruits from Fort Worth it seems they've found a pipeline with Fort Worth ISD student-athletes.
HOUSTON ISD on April 14, 2025, announced the expansion of their Girls Flag Football Program to more than 80 high schools across Houston and Texas. Now in its third season, the program includes all 25 Houston ISD high schools, as well as high schools in Fort Bend, Alief, Stafford and Charter Schools in the Houston area.
DALLAS ISD is joining school districts across the state to form a high school girls flag football league. “We are thrilled that with girls’ flag football becoming an emerging sport at the collegiate level, the game can now provide these young women a path to continuing their education at a higher level as well.”
ARLINGTON ISD, with support from the Dallas Cowboys and a rapidly expanding league, this sport is opening new doors for young women in athletics. The excitement around high school girls’ flag football is growing fast!
CORPUS CHRISTI — A new opportunity is coming for young female athletes in Corpus Christi as the RISE Flag Football League prepares to launch its inaugural season this fall. The league will offer divisions for girls from 3rd grade to 10th grade and includes a seven-game season.
EL PASO – Region 19 Girls Flag Football officially began its pilot and championship season, the first ever of its kind in El Paso, on Monday, April 21, 2025. 39 teams representing eight school districts have the chance to compete throughout the season to grow the sport.
AUSTIN ISD is proud to announce the formation of a Girls Flag Football League, which will begin competitive play this Spring 2025, with support from the Dallas Cowboys organization.
DeSoto High School made history with the introduction of its first girls flag football team, joining multiple school districts across North Texas in expanding opportunities for female athletes. From football and basketball to track and field, DeSoto ISD has long been a powerhouse, and this latest addition offers another platform for student-athletes to showcase their skills.
EAST TEXAS cannot be too far off college coaches' radar, considering East Texas Baptist University (Marshall, Tx.) and Wiley University (Marshall, Tx.) have added women flag football plus the growth of the sport all across the state. We plan to make sure we are noticed by inviting each colleges' flag football coach to include the East Texas Flag Football League in their scouting and recruiting process. We will contact as many college and university flag football coaches as possible to open lines of communication. We will establish a network with these coaches and provide game film for their evaluation when warranted.