Girls Flag Football is on the Rise in California

While it is no surprise that girls flag football has been a hot topic around the country, the sport can give thanks to the state of California for much of its exponential growth. SFGATE projects that from the girl’s flag football players in the United States, 29% of these athletes reside in the state of California.

Fuel to the Movement

Possible drivers for this growth can relate back to a few things. In 2023, big strides were made when girls flag football became approved statewide by the CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) which sparked a mass participation in the sport statewide.

Additionally, new youth leagues have surfaced along with adding a spring season to extend the fall high school season of the sport. These leagues have provided structure for starting championships. Most recently, in 2024, North Coast Section launched their first ever official championship.

Media giants such as ESPN have started to cover girl’s championships, bringing in nationwide viewership. NFL Alumni players have been investing and supporting new initiatives that align with sports growth. This coverage has provided girls flag football leagues and teams with partnerships and coverage that has never been seen before.  

What’s Next?

With the evolution of girl’s flag football at the forefront of high school athletic departments, schools will need to analyze possible infrastructure changes along with investments in more teams, coaches, and staff.

With a growth rate upwards of 84%, girls flag football is beginning to make a name for itself across youth sports in the state of California. It will be up to the schools and youth leagues to manage the future of this growing sport.

LINK:  https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/california-epicenter-america-girls-flag-football-21017936.php