The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) has approved girls’ flag football as a state-sanctioned sport, set to commence in the 2025-26 school year. This announcement, made during Wednesday’s final reading at PIAA headquarters in Mechanicsburg, comes as more than 100 high schools across the state prepare to field teams.
“We’re thrilled that we can offer another opportunity for girls to participate in interscholastic athletics,” said PIAA President Frank Majikes. The approval follows a significant rise in interest, with 25 schools sponsoring teams in July 2023 and over 100 participating by April 2024. This growth has been particularly strong in Eastern Pennsylvania, where 65 schools have joined the movement.
The sport’s development is bolstered by support from the NFL, with the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers playing crucial roles in promoting girls’ flag football. The Eagles initiated a league in 2022, starting with 16 schools, now expanding to 65 schools and over 1,600 players. “This is not just an important day for the Eagles and Steelers, but for the sport of football and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” stated Jeffrey Lurie, owner of the Eagles. He emphasized the significance of this achievement, noting it was reached two years ahead of schedule.
As part of the rollout, the PIAA will develop a girls’ flag football rules book by January 2025, paving the way for a championship structure. The Eagles and Steelers are also providing first-year programs with financial support and equipment to ensure a successful start.
Pennsylvania becomes the 13th state to sanction girls’ flag football.