The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has officially added girls flag football to its roster of sanctioned sports, designating it as the 29th official sport across the state. The move will see 162 varsity teams take the field beginning with the 2027 season, marking the first time the fast‑growing game will be contested under the OHSAA umbrella.
The Board of Directors voted unanimously to elevate the sport, positioning it as the 15th sponsored competition for high school girls. This decision reflects the rapid expansion of participation and the strong community support that has emerged in recent years.
Executive Director’s Vision
OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute highlighted the significance of the addition, noting the sport’s surge in interest and the collaborative effort that made it possible. “The growth of flag football has been extraordinary, and we’re thrilled to see it embraced by schools and families alike,” Ute said in a statement.
The initiative has drawn backing from several NFL franchises, with the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns playing pivotal roles in promoting the game and helping secure its official status. Their involvement includes funding tournaments and providing resources to schools interested in launching programs.
Voices of Support
Bengals Vice President Elizabeth Blackburn expressed pride in the milestone, stating, “We are proud to support girls flag football and celebrate this historic milestone for student‑athletes across Ohio.”
Browns co‑owners Dee Haslam and Jimmy Haslam called the recognition “a tremendous milestone for student‑athletes across the state,” underscoring the personal commitment of the Haslam family to youth sports development.
The upcoming 2027 season is expected to feature competitions across multiple regions, with schools already planning schedules and recruiting efforts. Officials anticipate that the sport will continue to expand, offering more opportunities for female athletes to engage in a competitive, team‑based environment.