Arizona is emerging as the epicenter of girls flag football in the United States, with the state’s preseason rankings drawing national attention as the sport experiences rapid expansion.
Arizona’s Flag Football Boom
At the top of the list, Hamilton High School in Chandler enters the season with a flawless 21‑0 record, positioning itself as the team to beat. The school’s dominance reflects a broader surge in participation and competitive balance across the state.
The Arizona Cardinals have taken a pioneering step by becoming the first NFL franchise to air weekly girls high school flag football games in 2024. Their broadcasts feature live color commentary, player interviews and post‑game awards, including trophies and monetary donations to the winning schools.
Behind Hamilton, Red Mountain High School in Mesa holds the second spot with a 19‑2 record, while Marana High School in Tucson ranks third at 17‑1. Other notable contenders include Highland and Campo Verde in Gilbert, both posting strong seasons, and Salpointe Catholic in Tucson, which sits fifth with a 16‑1 mark.
The depth of talent extends to Phoenix, where O'Connor High School is positioned eighth with an 11‑4 record, and to Prescott, where the eponymous high school climbs to ninth with a 16‑3 record. Queen Creek and Mountain Ridge round out the top ten, each showcasing impressive win‑loss tallies.
Beyond the scoreboard, the rapid growth of girls flag football is reshaping high school athletics in Arizona. With the Cardinals’ weekly broadcasts amplifying visibility, the sport is poised to become a staple of the state’s athletic landscape, drawing more participants, sponsors and media coverage each season.