Ohio Paves New Path with Girls Flag Football State Championship
In a historic move, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) announced its decision to sanction a state championship in girls flag football, beginning in spring 2026. The announcement, held in Canton, reverberated through the sports community, heralding a new era for young female athletes across the state. Partnered by the NFL and eminent teams like the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals, this initiative aims to elevate the sport to unprecedented levels.
Empowerment Through Participation
“This will take the sport to the next level and give girls the opportunity not just in Cincinnati and Cleveland to play the sport that a lot of girls love,” stated Mike Sebastian, head coach of the reigning state champion Badin Rams. His enthusiasm reflects a transformative vision—creating a platform where young women can showcase their passion and skills while nurturing teamwork and leadership.
The Growing Phenomenon
Elizabeth Blackburn, Bengals Director of Strategy and Engagement, emphasized the significance of this milestone, saying, “Flag football is more than a sport — it’s a platform for teamwork, leadership, development, and community.” As participation surges, with over 80 high school teams already engaged, Ohio joins 16 other states in promoting girls flag football, marking a key moment in the sport’s national expansion. According to WCPO 9 Cincinnati, this development is anticipated to encourage even broader involvement statewide.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
“The sport is set to grow exponentially over the next few seasons,” shared Sebastian. Both the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association and the OHSAA are committed to fostering this growth. Additionally, with the introduction of girls flag football to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the horizon looks promising for aspiring athletes.
Celebrating Milestones and Planning Ahead
The Browns and Bengals, prominent supporters of this uplifting venture, have already laid the groundwork by organizing successful regional tournaments. Their dedication was applauded by Sebastian, who deemed their involvement as “instrumental” in bringing dreams to fruition. As dates for the 2026 state tournament are finalized, excitement continues to build, setting the stage for future champions.
This weekend, ESPN, ABC, Disney, and the NFL highlight the sport’s vibrancy with a comprehensive 33-hour coverage of the NFL Flag Championships. It includes a showcase of 15 games from the girls’ high school division, capturing the spirit and excitement that surrounds the national championship game.
The journey towards spring 2026 is one filled with anticipation and promise, celebrating a flourishing sport while forging pathways for women in athletics.
