PETITION TO SANCTION GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL FLAG FOOTBALL IN THE STATE OF MISSOURI

To: The Missouri State High School Activities Association, Missouri school districts, athletic directors, and state education leaders

Subject: Official Sanctioning of Girls High School Flag Football as a Varsity Sport in Missouri for the upcoming school year(2026-2027)

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Missouri State High School Activities Association formally sanction girls high school flag football as an official varsity sport across the state of Missouri for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. The State of Kansas has officially made the decision after only 1 season. We’ve been playing for 3 years now.

Purpose of This Petition

This petition seeks to expand athletic opportunities for female student-athletes by recognizing and supporting girls flag football as a sanctioned high school sport. Flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports for girls nationwide and provides a safe, inclusive, and competitive environment that promotes teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

Why This Matters

1. Equal Opportunity & Growth
Sanctioning girls flag football aligns with the spirit of Title IX by increasing equitable athletic opportunities for female students. Many states are already adopting girls flag football, creating pathways for athletes to compete at higher levels.

2. Rising Popularity
Across the United States, participation in girls flag football is rapidly increasing, with support from organizations like the NFL and local communities. Missouri risks falling behind if it does not act to sanction the sport.

3. Accessibility & Safety
Flag football offers a lower-contact alternative to traditional tackle football while still delivering the excitement and competitive spirit of the game. It requires minimal equipment and can be implemented cost-effectively.

4. College & Career Pathways
As more colleges begin offering scholarships for women’s flag football, Missouri athletes deserve the same opportunities to advance their athletic and academic careers. Many girls have already gotten D1 offers to play as the NCAA prepares to make it a Varsity sport as well.

5. Community Impact
Adding girls flag football strengthens school spirit, boosts participation, and fosters community engagement. It also allows schools to utilize existing football infrastructure efficiently.

Our Request

We urge the Missouri State High School Activities Association to:

* Officially recognize girls flag football as a sanctioned high school sport

* Develop rules, divisions, and a state championship structure

* Provide guidance and support for schools to implement programs

* Promote statewide participation beginning in the upcoming academic seasons

Conclusion

Missouri has the opportunity to lead, not follow. By sanctioning girls flag football, we invest in our students, promote equality, and embrace the future of athletics.

We respectfully ask for your support in making this vision a reality.

Signatures

Name: ___________________________
School/Organization (if applicable): ___________________________
City: ___________________________
Email: ___________________________
Signature: ___________________________
Date: ___________________________

Together, we can bring girls flag football to Missouri schools and open doors for the next generation of athletes.