Utah Launches Groundbreaking Flag Football League for High School Girls
Salt Lake City — In a major step toward inclusivity in sports, the Utah High School Girls Football Association is set to launch a new flag football league this fall, designed for girls in grades eight to twelve. This initiative aims to empower young female athletes to explore football, providing an exciting opportunity to find camaraderie and competition.
Ryan NeVille, founder of the association, was inspired to create the league after witnessing his daughter excel in a tackle football league. He recognized the need for a similar outlet in Utah, which led him to organize a group of girls for the Utah Summer Games in Cedar City. The positive response from participants reaffirmed the potential of flag football for female athletes. "Being part of the Summer Games showed that this movement is real — and just getting started," NeVille commented.
Flag football presents unique advantages over tackle football, including pathways to professional leagues and potential Olympic recognition. As a burgeoning sport, flag football offers an inclusive environment where girls of various athletic backgrounds can thrive. "Football is a true team sport because everybody has their job to do," NeVille emphasized, noting that participants do not need to be the strongest or fastest to contribute to their teams.
As the league gears up for competitive play against teams nationally, it seeks to pave the way for Utah to eventually sanction flag football as an official high school sport. Registration for teams is open until September 8, with games commencing on September 15. For further details, visit the Utah High School Girls Football Association’s website.
This initiative not only aims to enhance sporting opportunities for girls but also seeks to inspire a generation to embrace football, fostering teamwork and athletic development.
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