Please add your voice in encouraging Newton South High School to establish a girls flag football team and join the New England Patriots Girls High School Flag Football League.

Flag football is one of the fastest-growing high school sports in America for girls. Twenty-three states have already sanctioned girls flag football as an official high school sport, and participation continues to rise nationwide. The sport is creating new opportunities for female athletes to compete, develop leadership skills, and build confidence in an inclusive, team-oriented environment.

While Massachusetts has not yet sanctioned girls flag football, momentum is growing rapidly. Governor Healey has publicly encouraged the MIAA to recognize the sport, and the New England Patriots have been leading the way through their Girls High School Flag Football League. Since launching with just eight schools in 2023, the league has expanded to more than 50 schools across New England.

Newton South has an opportunity to be part of this movement and provide a new athletic opportunity for its students.

Girls flag football offers numerous benefits:

• Expands athletic opportunities for students who may not currently participate in school sports - 50% of participants in the Patriots HS league do not play another sport
• Builds leadership, teamwork, confidence, and resilience.
• Complements existing sports and attracts both multi-sport 
• Promotes physical activity, school engagement, and community.
• Advances equity by giving girls greater access to football and the growing opportunities associated with the sport.

The future of girls flag football has never been brighter. The sport has been recognized by the NCAA as an Emerging Sport for Women, colleges across the country are adding programs, and flag football will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Today's high school athletes can now pursue collegiate and even international opportunities through the sport.

The excitement is already evident. This summer's NFL Flag Championships attracted record television audiences, with the high school girls championship game becoming the most-watched flag football game ever.

Just as importantly, girls flag football is a practical addition for schools. Equipment costs are relatively low, existing athletic facilities can be used, and support is available through the Patriots league and the local football community.

Newton South has a proud tradition of excellence, inclusion, and innovation. Establishing a girls flag football team would continue that tradition while creating new opportunities for female student-athletes and positioning Newton South as a leader in Massachusetts.

Please sign this petition and help bring girls flag football to Newton South High School. Together, we can give the next generation of Newton South athletes the opportunity to compete, lead, and thrive.