Let’s hear it for the girls

Louisiana high school girls are taking the field in flag football, the first year of a two-year LHSAA pilot that could make the sport a permanent part of the calendar.

The big picture: This is more than a club experiment. The Saints helped spark the push in Louisiana, and the LHSAA decided to take it on as a formal pilot.

The details: To become a sanctioned sport, at least 80 schools have to field teams, according to Ethan Anderson, the LHSAA’s communications lead. The number is only part of the test. Officials also have to figure out whether the sport can work statewide. That means enough teams, enough places to play, enough trained officials and a structure that gives girls in Monroe or Lake Charles the same shot as girls in New Orleans.

What’s happening: The 2026 season began March 16. Most teams are clustered in the New Orleans area, though the Saints say 64 teams are playing statewide this year.

Closer to home: Baton Rouge has a foothold. A scan of schedules shows teams at St. Michael, Scotlandville, Geo Next, Madison Prep, Broadmoor, Glen Oaks and St. Amant.

Why this could stick: The sport is growing fast nationally, boosted by NFL backing. 68,847 girls participated last year, a 60% jump from the previous year.

Bottom line: The Saints lit the fuse. Now Louisiana has to decide whether girls flag football has enough staying power to move from pilot to permanent.