A New Girls’ Sport Arriving Fall 2026

The next generation of Howard County football players may not be in pads, but they will still be scoring touchdowns. Get ready for girls’ flag football coming to Howard County next year!

In a partnership with the Baltimore Ravens, HCPSS has announced that girls’ flag football will be officially added to the list of high school sports for all public high schools beginning in the fall of 2026.

The announcement, which was made by County Executive Calvin Ball, Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks Director Nick Mooneyhan, HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes, and representatives from the Baltimore Ravens, marks a significant step forward in expanding athletic opportunities for female athletes in Howard County. The Ravens are at the forefront of this movement, having already launched programs in several other Maryland counties.

For many female athletes, this new league represents a chance to explore a sport that has historically been dominated by male athletes. Girls’ flag football provides an opportunity for high school female athletes to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and compete in a game that has been historically “out of reach.” The Department of Recreation and Parks will play a key role in preparing for the league’s launch, with a recreational league planned for 2025 to give players and coaches a chance to get a feel for the sport.

The Baltimore Ravens are not just lending their names to the initiative; they are actively supporting and helping the league succeed. As part of the partnership, the NFL team will hold free clinics beginning in October for both athletes and coaches, providing valuable training and resources to ensure the program starts on a strong foot.

While the fall of 2026 feels far, the excitement is already building. Many students are already seeing this as a chance to be part of something historic. The introduction of girls’ flag football is more than just a new sports offering; it’s a statement about equity, inclusion, and the future of athletics in our schools. With a clear timeline and strong support from the community, the Ravens, and the school system, all signs point to a successful launch that will provide a new and exciting avenue for student-athletes to shine.