What started as a small thing is now beginning to make an appearance on the national stage, as girls flag football rapidly gains recognition.  

Here in Brevard, Boys and Girls Club staff member Devon Holmes has created a flag football team, and not only for boys, but for girls. So many people have said they are grateful for the effort he puts into these teams to get them to be as successful as they can be in the future. 

In the past few years, flag football has gone from an overlooked afterthought to one of the fastest growing sports for young female athletes. In the United States, 15 states have already made it a sanctioned high school sport and 19, including North Carolina, have created pilot programs. 

The growth in popularity comes after years of approval by players, coaches and supporters. In 2021, the NFL partnered with Nike to launch a $5 million initiative to bring flag football to girls in high schools nationwide. 

Addison Worley plays on the girls flag football team run out of the Boys and Girls Club in Transylvania County.

“It’s not just about playing a sport, it’s also about having fun,” she said. 

According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, girls flag football saw a 40-percent increase in participation from 2022 to 2024. As more schools across the nation introduce programs, girls are seizing the chance to compete and open doors to future opportunities.

“Through all the years I’ve been playing with this team, I’ve seen my teammates who were shy and quiet become real leaders and bring so much energy to our team,” said Kennedy Reeves, who has been playing flag football for many years.

Recently, this team of girls just got back into playing after being busy with other school sports, work and their home lives. They have played in tournaments in places like Charlotte, Atlanta and even Miami. 

On May 31, the older group of boys and girls took a trip to Nashville, Tenn. to play in a tournament and the girls ended up winning the championship. 

“Winning my first tournament with this team was such a fun feeling to experience and I can’t wait for many more,” said player Patience Boyd. 

As visibility continues to rise and media coverage increases, girls flag football is earning its place in the spotlight. Schools, fans and communities are rallying behind these athletes, recognizing their talent, dedication and spirit.

By Tyana Crite

Provided photos