The Tennessee Titans have bestowed their 2026 Coach of the Year award on James Smith, the head coach of Creek Wood High School, recognizing his role in guiding the school’s girls flag football team to a state championship in just its second season.
A Growing Movement
Girls flag football is no longer a niche pastime; the league now spans more than 160 high schools across Tennessee, a surge fueled in part by financial backing from Bridgestone, the global tire manufacturer. The sport’s rapid expansion has even earned a spot at the 2028 Olympic Games, underscoring its rising profile.
More Than a Game
Beyond athletic development, the Titans’ Girls Flag Football League emphasizes life skills such as teamwork, perseverance and confidence, aiming to empower young women on and off the field. In the championship game, Hollee Wilson’s four interceptions helped secure the title for Creek Wood, illustrating the competitive edge the program cultivates.
A Path to the Olympics
With flag football slated to appear at the 2028 Olympic Games, the sport’s visibility is set to rise, and the NFL is already showcasing talent at its third annual NFL FLAG Championships this summer, drawing attention from fans, sponsors and international audiences alike.