The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has officially voted to add girls flag football as a sanctioned sport for the 2026‑27 academic year, marking the organization’s 29th recognized competition.
A Milestone for Female Athletes
The decision comes as participation has surged, with 162 high school teams across the state fielding girls flag football this past spring, reflecting a broader national interest in the fast‑growing variant of the game.
OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute said the association is proud to welcome the sport, noting that the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals and the National Football League have been instrumental in promoting the league and providing visibility at the professional level.
While exact dates for the 2027 season and the state tournament are still being finalized, officials expect to release a detailed schedule in the coming months, promising a structured championship pathway for participating schools.
Beyond the high school arena, flag football is slated to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, a development that could further accelerate investment and participation nationwide.