The excitement is building across Ohio as the first OHSAA Girls High School Flag Football state tournament prepares to kick off on Saturday, May 16. Eight teams have earned their spots after a season of fierce competition, and the stage is set for a historic showdown.
Ohio’s decision to sanction flag football last year made it the 17th state to embrace the sport, a move that has sparked a surge of participation and investment in girls’ tackle‑free football programs statewide.
All of the games will be held at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, a venue that has long celebrated the gridiron’s legacy and now will spotlight the next generation of female athletes.
Fans can catch every moment live on spectrumnews1.com and through the Spectrum News 1 mobile app, while the championship game will also receive a dedicated broadcast on Spectrum News 1 Ohio, ensuring statewide coverage.
The quarterfinal round is scheduled to begin at noon, featuring four compelling matchups: Madison will square off against Mount Notre Dame, Midview will meet Princeton, Berkshire will take on St. Ursula, and Nordonia will face Badin, each contest kicking off simultaneously.
Quarterfinal Highlights
The opening games promise tight contests, with each team bringing a distinct style to the field, from Madison’s aggressive rush to Mount Notre Dame’s disciplined defense, Midview’s balanced attack, Princeton’s speedy receivers, Berkshire’s tenacious secondary, St. Ursula’s veteran leadership, Nordonia’s dynamic play‑calling, and Badin’s relentless pressure.
Following the quarterfinals, the semifinals will take the field at 1 p.m., setting the stage for a championship game that is slated for 2:30 p.m., a timing designed to maximize viewership and give the finalists a prime spotlight.
Looking ahead
Beyond the trophies, the tournament marks a cultural milestone, signaling growing recognition of girls’ sports and paving the way for future expansions, scholarship opportunities, and deeper community engagement with flag football across Ohio.