A New Chapter for High School Sports
The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has added girls flag football to its roster of sanctioned sports, designating it as the 29th official sport for the 2026‑2027 academic year. The decision follows a board vote and aligns with the sport's upcoming debut at the 2028 Olympic Games, reflecting a broader push to expand opportunities for female athletes.
Since the inaugural season in 2021, participation has surged, with 162 high school teams fielding girls flag football across the state this past spring. To accelerate the program, the OHSAA has partnered with the Cleveland Browns, the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, sponsoring a statewide tournament that culminated in a championship victory for Macedonia Nordonia.
Voices from the Field
Doug Ute, executive director of the OHSAA, said the association is proud to welcome the sport into its fold, while Elizabeth Blackburn, vice president of the Bengals, hailed the decision as a historic milestone for student‑athletes. Dee Haslam and Jimmy Haslam, principal owners of the Cleveland Browns, added that the team is excited to support the growth of girls flag football through resources and mentorship.
The recognition not only validates the efforts of thousands of young players but also signals a commitment from major regional brands to invest in the sport's infrastructure. As the state prepares for the inaugural varsity season, officials expect the model to inspire similar initiatives nationwide.
Looking Ahead
With the sport now officially sanctioned, the OHSAA plans to expand tournament formats and develop developmental programs in partnership with schools and local clubs, aiming to have every Ohio high school field a team by the end of the decade.