The New England Patriots Foundation hosted its third girls flag football championship, emphasizing the sport's growth and popularity among high school girls in Massachusetts. As the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association has yet to recognize flag football as an official sport, the Patriots have initiated club leagues, resulting in an increase from 8 to 51 teams since 2023. Stakeholders, including former NFL players and coaches, advocate for official recognition, citing strong demand among young female athletes who have long sought a place in football.
"A lot of them have been playing since they were 5, 6, 7 years old. And they were limited when they got out of middle school and went into high school."
"I think the sport has had a huge following for a long time... the state's silly to not adopt this as a MIAA sport because it's going to only keep growing."
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