(Indianapolis, IN) - Girls’ high school flag football is closer to becoming a full-fledged sport in Indiana.
The Indianapolis Colts have announced that they’ve reached their goal of recruiting 100 high school flag football programs. That’s the number needed for the IHSAA to consider making it an official high school sport. A vote to do so could come as early as next May.
"Reaching more than 100 participating schools is a tremendous milestone for girls flag football in Indiana and it reflects the growing enthusiasm for the sport across our state," said Paul Neidig, IHSAA Commissioner. "We appreciate the Colts for their vision, leadership, and investment in creating new opportunities for young women. This achievement marks an important step in the IHSAA's process toward potential championship recognition, and we look forward to seeing the continued growth of girls flag football in Indiana."
Three years ago the Colts launched a statewide girls’ flag football league with eight teams, which grew to 27 teams in 2024, when it officially earned emerging sport status by the IHSAA. Next year, 108 teams will hit the field. Costs associated with launching a team typically range from $5,000 to $8,000 for equipment, uniforms, training and coaching stipends. To help offset that cost, the Colts invested up to $10,000 each in the schools that joined the Road to 100.
"Girls flag football provides another pathway for girls to learn, play and love our great sport, as well as all the other opportunities and benefits that come from playing youth sports and being a part of a team," said Kalen Jackson, Colts Owner & Chief Brand Officer. "The Colts are proud to help lead this effort to make football more accessible and inclusive for all, and this is only the beginning for girls flag in Indiana."
The sport has already taken off at New Prairie High School, which just kicked off its second season. In October their girls’ flag team was among eight finalists to vie for the sport’s first state championship down in Westfield.
Two New Prairie flag players, Shai Manly and Ellie Harris, recently participated in the North/South All-Star game. Another player, Andrea Loza, won an $8,000 scholarship from Toyota at the NFL Flag Championships last month.
