Topeka girls gain confidence through flag football

TOPEKA (KSNT) - With national support and local passion, girls flag football is gaining serious traction in the Capital City.

These girls are part of a growing movement, one that's seeing girls flag football recognized on a national scale.

"For a long time, girls have been very limited to the sport so they can play," said Girls' Flag Football Coach Chardae Bell. "And even if they wanted to play football, they were always discouraged to do it. And so, when we when she got the opportunity to play flag football, I knew that it was important for her to experience something that is new and exciting that was just for girls and it's just kind of blown up."

Girls flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The NCAA is even considering adding it to collegiate competition. But for these girls, it's about right now.

"There are a lot more advanced now," said Top City Crush Director, Tobian Thomas. "They're putting a lot more into taking care of their bodies. They're putting a lot more into getting stronger physically, mentally. The confidence that is breeding has been great across the board. So, you know, they're showing that they can get out here and play, whether it's flag football or tackle football. They have the capabilities of being right up there with the boys as good, if not better."

Middle school girls joined the boys at summer camp, learning plays, running routes and forming bonds that go far beyond the field. Coaches hope the sport continues to grow, and that a full high school league could be right around the corner.

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