A new pathway for girls in football
Manhattan Parks and Recreation announced this week that it will begin a recreational girls' flag football league for high school students, capitalizing on the sport's rising popularity across Kansas.
The effort follows the Kansas State High School Activities Association's recent decision to sanction flag football for the 2026‑27 school year, a move that has opened the door for more schools to adopt the game.
Local schools are responding in different ways; while Wamego High School will field a varsity girls' flag football team this fall, Manhattan‑Ogden USD 383 has said it will not field a team this season.
Joe Schartz, head football coach at Manhattan High, praised the expansion, saying the growth of football in any form benefits schools and the broader community.
KSHSAA officials have promised to release further details on classifications, scheduling and postseason formats in the coming months, giving participants a clearer picture of the competitive landscape.
The new league provides a valuable chance for athletes who might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn and compete in flag football, especially as interest spreads beyond traditional football strongholds.