Jason Fleury, a lifelong fly‑fishing guide from Bozeman, never imagined that his weekend hobby would intersect with the roar of a football field.
The spark came when his teenage daughter, Annalise Fleury, fell in love with flag football after watching a local game. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and Fleury found himself drawn to the sport’s rapid pace and inclusive spirit.
A New Chapter for Girls Flag Football in Gallatin
Inspired by his daughter’s passion, Fleury volunteered to coach Gallatin High School’s first girls flag football team. He saw an opportunity to give young athletes a chance to compete in a fast‑moving, team‑oriented environment that had already captured the imagination of many in the community.
The response was immediate. An Instagram announcement about the new squad garnered nearly 18 sign‑ups within eight hours, a testament to the growing interest in flag football among high‑school girls in the region.
Fleury isn’t new to coaching girls in flag football; he previously led a club team that swelled from a handful of players to almost enough for two full squads. That experience taught him how to nurture talent, manage logistics, and foster a competitive yet supportive atmosphere.
He describes the game as “fast‑paced and enjoyable,” a quality that keeps both players and coaches engaged from the first whistle to the final play. The high school team is now focused on building a strong foundation, mastering fundamentals, and showcasing the skill set of its athletes.
Gallatin High School is renowned for its phenomenal athletes across a range of sports. Fleury believes that the new flag football program will not only add another dimension to the school’s athletic portfolio but also provide a platform for girls to excel in a sport that emphasizes speed, strategy, and teamwork.
With the season approaching, the team is already training, refining plays, and bonding as a unit. Community support is building, and expectations are high for a debut season that could set a precedent for other schools in Montana.