Washington sanctions girls flag football as high school sport, first addition since 1999
The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) has sanctioned girls' flag football as a high school sport, the first new sport approved since 1999. The Seattle Seahawks, a key supporter since 2021, have invested over $381,000 in grants to help establish more than 100 teams statewide. Recently, they announced an additional $200,000 commitment for 2025 to further support the sport's growth. WIAA Executive Director Mick Hoffman praised the collaboration with the Seahawks, highlighting the significance of this initiative for young female athletes. With this new status, teams can compete in an official state tournament, increasing the sport's visibility and competitive landscape.
Moreover, girls' flag football will debut at the Olympic Games in 2028, marking a historic moment for the sport. The NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA will offer women's flag football at nearly 60 colleges and universities by Spring 2025, providing pathways for athletes at the collegiate level. This development underscores a growing commitment to expanding opportunities for girls in sports.