YMCA of Western North Carolina launches region's first high school girls NFL FLAG football league

The YMCA of Western North Carolina is proud to announce the launch of the first high school girls NFL FLAG football league in western North Carolina, marking a historic milestone for girls' athletics across the region.

Open to girls ages 14–17, the league arrives at a pivotal moment for one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. Flag football will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles, while North Carolina high schools are preparing to introduce girls flag football as an officially sanctioned spring sport, creating new opportunities for student-athletes across the state.

The Y's new league gives local athletes the opportunity to develop their skills, compete in a safe and supportive environment, and become part of a movement that is transforming the future of women's sports.

"At the Y, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to discover what they're capable of," said Ashley Shores, executive director of programs at the YMCA of Western North Carolina. "Girls flag football is growing at an incredible pace across the country, and we're excited to ensure that young women in western North Carolina have access to the same opportunities that are opening doors nationwide.”

The Y's program is offered in partnership with NFL FLAG, the nation's largest youth flag football organization, serving more than 765,000 athletes in over 2,000 leagues across all 50 states. Through this partnership, participants gain access to a nationally recognized program emphasizing skill development, sportsmanship, teamwork, and fun, while opening doors to regional and national competition.

The league is designed for athletes of all experience levels—from girls who have never played football to those looking to sharpen their competitive skills before future high school seasons. Participants will develop football fundamentals while strengthening communication, teamwork, resilience, and leadership in an encouraging environment led by trained coaches.

In addition to the new high school girls league, the Y continues to offer co-ed NFL FLAG leagues for children ages 5–13, creating a complete youth development pathway for athletes throughout the region.

As one of the nation's leading youth-serving organizations, the Y remains committed to making sports accessible to all families. Thanks to generous local donations, financial assistance is available for qualifying households, ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate regardless of financial circumstances.

Registration for the inaugural high school girls NFL FLAG football league is now open.

For more information or to register, visit ymcawnc.org/sports.