Girls High School Flag Football Now Varsity Sport in Ohio
Ohio has become the 17th state to officially sanction girls flag football as a varsity sport, thanks to a multi-year effort led by the Cleveland Browns, with support from the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The Browns played a foundational role in building momentum for the sport, launching a girls high school flag football league in 2021 and creating a statewide pilot program that demonstrated both interest and viability.
Their vision and commitment, along with formal collaboration with the OHSAA and Ohio High School Football Coaches Association, laid the groundwork for the sport’s sanctioning.
This milestone is being celebrated as a powerful moment for young female athletes across Ohio. Browns Head Coach Kevin Stefanski praised the announcement, noting it’s been “a long time coming” after years of planning and behind-the-scenes work.
The Browns not only helped launch and expand the sport, but also served as a bridge between stakeholders to ensure a clear path to varsity recognition. The Bengals also contributed by establishing a pilot season in Cincinnati, further reinforcing the sport’s growing popularity and legitimacy.
Most importantly, the decision opens the door for girls across Ohio to compete for a state championship in a sport they love. Starting this spring, girls flag football will stand proudly among varsity offerings statewide.
This milestone in Ohio also reflects a broader commitment to upholding the child’s right to rest, leisure, and to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to their age.
By officially sanctioning girls flag football as a varsity sport, Ohio is not only expanding athletic opportunities but also affirming that young girls deserve equal access to meaningful, age-appropriate recreational experiences. It ensures that more children can enjoy the physical, emotional, and social benefits of sports while fostering inclusion, empowerment, and participation in activities that support their well-being and development.
