Breaking Barriers: How to Start a Girls’ Flag Football Team and Grow the Game

For years, football has been synonymous with Friday night lights, roaring crowds, and intense competition. But one of the fastest-growing movements in high school sports isn’t happening under a helmet—it’s taking place on the flag football field.

With more states sanctioning girls' flag football as an official high school sport and organizations like the NFL investing millions in its growth, now is the time for athletic directors and coaches to build the foundation for a successful program. If you’re thinking about starting a varsity girls' flag football team at your high school, here’s everything you need to know—from equipment to funding, to getting the community on board.

The Rise of Girls' Flag Football

The expansion of girls' flag football is no accident—it’s a revolution fueled by increasing demand for competitive opportunities and the NFL’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Through initiatives like the NFL Girls Flag Football Grant, Nike and the NFL have pledged more than $5 million to help high schools establish teams. Meanwhile, USA Football and NFL FLAG continue to provide resources, training, and funding to ensure that female athletes have access to the game.

Schools in states like Florida, Georgia, and California have already sanctioned girls’ flag football as a varsity sport, and more are following suit. The goal? To give young women the same opportunities to compete at a high level and potentially earn scholarships in a sport traditionally dominated by men.

So, how do you get started?

Building Your Team: What You Need to Get on the Field

Launching a varsity flag football team requires the right mix of players, coaching, and equipment. Here's what every athletic director and coach should consider:

Essential Equipment

• Flag Belts – Every player needs a belt with three detachable flags.
• Mouthguards – A must for safety and often required by league rules.
• Cleats – Non-metal cleats help prevent slipping and injuries.
• Jerseys & Pocketless Shorts – Official team uniforms help with team cohesion and ensure compliance with flag football regulations.
• Football(s) – High school-sized footballs designed for passing accuracy.
• Cones & Field Markers – Used for setting up drills and outlining field boundaries.
• First Aid Kit – Crucial for handling minor injuries.

Coaching & Development

• Playbooks & Wristband Systems – Help streamline communication and keep players organized.
• Agility Training Gear – Tools like speed ladders and resistance bands improve footwork and conditioning.
• Down Markers & Scoreboards – Useful for keeping track of the game.

Securing Funding & Support

Starting a new team often comes down to funding, but there are multiple ways to secure the resources you need:

• Apply for Grants:
  • NFL Girls Flag Football Grant – Provides funding to high schools looking to launch girls’ flag football teams. Apply here: NFL Girls Flag Grant
  • USA Football Grants – Offers grants for equipment, coaching resources, and league development. Apply here: USA Football Grants
  • NFL FLAG League Organizer Guide – A step-by-step resource for setting up a league or team. Access it here: NFL FLAG League Organizer Guide
• Seek Local Sponsorships: Partner with local businesses to help cover uniform and equipment costs. Many companies are willing to support youth sports programs for community engagement and brand exposure.
• Host Fundraisers:
  • Organize a car wash, bake sale, or skills clinic for young athletes.
  • Use crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or Snap! Raise to reach a broader audience for donations.

Growing the Game in Your Community

The key to building a successful program isn’t just assembling a team—it’s creating a culture.

1. Get the Word Out – Use social media, school announcements, and local news outlets to generate buzz about tryouts and games.
2. Connect with Other Schools – Find nearby programs or advocate for your state to sanction girls' flag football as an official high school sport.
3. Engage Younger Athletes – Encourage middle school participation to create a pipeline of future talent.

Girls' flag football isn’t just a trend—it’s the future. With major backing from the NFL, increasing recognition at the high school level, and more collegiate programs taking notice, the sport is here to stay.

For athletic directors and coaches looking to start a team, the opportunity is bigger than just fielding players—it’s about giving young women the chance to compete, lead, and make history.

The only question left is: Are you ready to be part of the movement?

Additional Resources:

NFL Play Football – Learn more about the NFL’s commitment
USA Football – Get access to training, coaching certification, and grants.
NFL FLAG – Official flag football rules, league setup guides, & registration.