The Houston Texans are driving a movement to officially sanction girls’ flag football in Texas, hosting a major tournament to boost support ahead of a UIL vote.
HOUSTON — The Houston Texans are continuing their push to grow girls’ flag football across the state, hosting a regional tournament at their training facility as part of a larger effort to make the sport officially sanctioned by the UIL.
The event was held inside the Texans’ practice facility, a space typically reserved for the NFL team, but on this day it belonged to high school athletes competing in girls’ flag football.
For players, the opportunity represents more than just a tournament. It is part of a growing movement across the state.
“That would be amazing, you know, that’s just awesome,” Daniella Valle said.
Supporters of the effort say momentum is building, but official approval is still needed from the UIL.
“Hannah McNair has done a great job of being our advocate and going out there, and the Texans are using their platform to make the importance of this sport,” said Amanda Grosdidier, executive director of the Houston Texans Foundation. “But we need the UIL to vote to sanction this. So on June 10th, we’re urging them to make this a sanctioned sport. Twenty-three states are currently sanctioned. We need to be the next state.”
The Texans are also partnering with the Dallas Cowboys to elevate the sport, teaming up to crown the first-ever girls’ flag football Texas state champions.
That championship event is scheduled for June 13 and 14, with four teams from the Texans’ program set to compete.
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