Flag football is back
Arlington ISD’s girls flag football teams are back and stronger than ever!
All six traditional high schools are competing once again in the Dallas Cowboys Flag League, which kicked off its 2026 season on March 28.
Last year, all six Arlington ISD campuses officially launched girls flag football teams for the first time. With support from the Dallas Cowboys, the sport has quickly evolved from a new opportunity to a competitive force across the district.
Martin High School is entering the new season as the defending league champion.
“This sport is exploding, and we are hoping to help make that happen here in Arlington,” Martin flag football coach Patrick Dunn said. “Our girls work really hard, and they are excited about showing that on the field.”
Players across the district share that enthusiasm, recognizing the impact the sport can have on future athletes.
“We see all the opportunities this sport is going to give us and others,” Martin’s team said in a joint statement. “We are looking forward to continuing to help pave the way for this sport and other young ladies.”
Schools across the district reported there was a significantly larger turnout at tryouts this year, a clear sign of how quickly the sport is growing. Bowie High School coach Raymond Kitchen said the sport is catching the attention of athletes at every level.
“We are seeing girls come out who haven’t been involved in athletics as well as multi-sport athletes. I love the discipline, teamwork, and accountability the sport brings,” Kitchen said. “Girls flag football has a future and is here to stay.”
For many athletes, the sport is opening doors for opportunities beyond high school.
Martin High School seniors Lola Burks, Heaven Dixon, and Maria Rivera have each received scholarships from East Texas Baptist University to play flag football in college. Juju (Julianna) Christmas earned offers from UTA, Kansas Wesleyan, Shriner University, and Texas Wesleyan. Kenzley Sanchez received several offers from UTA, North Alabama, and Shriner University.
Their achievements highlight a strong year of academic and athletic success across the program.
“A lot of our female athletes are excited because it presents another avenue to go to college and get college paid for,” Sam Houston High School coach Andre Miller said. “This season, I am looking forward to building a foundation for our program that will last many years and continue to gain the interest of players.”
In Arlington ISD, spring is now football season, too.