Avery Stewart – Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Over the past few years, participation in flag football has rapidly increased among youth, high school, and adult athletes.
Many communities are seeing increased interest as more athletes begin joining local flag football teams. The Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) flag football Mustangs team featured 25 players and finished their season 9-7.
The reason for this sudden surge in popularity is that it is a safer alternative to tackle football for multiple reasons.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “Tackle football athletes sustained 23 times more high-magnitude head impacts than flag football athletes during a practice or game.”
Flag football gives people the chance to play a fast-paced game without any high-risk consequences.
Stay updated on more LRHS news by following us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or follow the Mustangs Ahead Podcast on Spotify/
Another reason for the growth of flag football is the opportunities that it creates for both boys and girls.
More schools are adding girls flag football teams, which increases the participation of athletics while still allowing them to compete at a high level.
Colleges are also beginning to recognize the sport, with some schools offering scholarships and creating competitive programs for athletes who want to continue playing after high school.
This sport has not only gained popularity at a local level, but also at an international level. Flag football was announced to be a part of the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
An article published by NFL.com found that “The NFL may be in its off-season, but this weekend, many of the game’s top stars will swap pads for flags at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, competing in the non-contact format that is set to make its debut at the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028.”
With support from schools, professional organizations, and athletes across the country, flag football continues to establish itself as more than just a recreational activity.