Girls’ flag high school football has officially been sanctioned as a sport in Mississippi, with the first season set to kick off in March. The Mississippi High School Activities Association, in partnership with the New Orleans Saints, made the announcement on Tuesday. Twelve schools will participate in the inaugural season, making Mississippi the 14th state to officially sanction this growing sport.
MHSAA Executive Director Rickey Neaves expressed excitement about the initiative, stating that it reflects the organization’s commitment to providing opportunities for students to participate in interscholastic activities. The partnership with the New Orleans Saints and the NFL is seen as a step towards increasing access and opportunities for student-athletes in the state.
New Orleans Saints owner, Gayle Benson, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and the opportunity to introduce girls’ flag football to Mississippi. NFL Vice President of Flag Football, Stephanie Kwok, highlighted Mississippi as the 14th state to sanction flag football as an official girls’ high school varsity sport, thanks in part to support from NFL clubs like the Saints.
All games will be held at either Southwest Mississippi Community College or Picayune High School. Flag football’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games program, supported by the International Federations of American Football and the NFL, marks a significant milestone for the sport. Mississippi’s official sanctioning of girls’ flag football is a testament to the growth and popularity of the sport across the country.
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