Ravens, Under Armour team with BCPS to add girls flag football in fall 2026

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — The Baltimore Ravens and Under Armour are expanding their push to grow girls flag football, announcing a new partnership with Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) that will bring the sport to more high schools starting in fall 2026.

Through the initiative, the Ravens and Under Armour will provide grant funding and uniforms to support the launch of girls flag football programs across the county.

The expansion also includes schools in Baltimore and St. Mary’s counties, adding 27 new programs and bringing total participation statewide to 132 high schools.

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League officials say the rapid growth reflects increasing momentum for the sport, which is moving closer to becoming officially sanctioned at the state level. Such a designation would create long-term opportunities for female student-athletes across Maryland.

The Ravens have played a central role in that growth, contributing more than $1 million to the initiative so far.

Each participating school receives $10,000 to help build and sustain its program. Under Armour will continue to supply custom uniforms for every team.

As we enter the fourth year of girls high school flag football in Maryland, we’re proud to partner with Baltimore County, home of our Under Armour Performance Center,” Ravens senior vice president of marketing Brad Downs said, via press release. “As we move closer to statewide sanctioning, we believe the sport is well-positioned for continued growth in 2026 and beyond. We remain just as committed in Year Four as we were at the outset and will continue to provide grant funding and uniforms alongside Under Armour to schools across the state. We strongly believe that female athletes should have the opportunity to play football throughout Maryland, and we are working diligently to make that vision a reality.

Baltimore County school officials say the program represents more than just adding another sport.

Girls’ flag football is more than a new sport – it’s a movement that expands opportunity and redefines what’s possible,” said Michael Sye, BCPS director of athletics, via press release. “Every time our female student athletes step onto the field, they show strength, courage and the unstoppable power of believing in themselves. This program builds confidence, leadership, and resilience, creating athletes who will inspire future generations and change the game far beyond the sidelines.

The initiative began in 2023 with 10 high schools in Frederick County.

It quickly expanded in 2024 with 43 additional schools in Baltimore City, Montgomery County and Washington County.

Another 24 schools joined in 2025 across Calvert, Charles and Howard counties, along with 26 schools in Prince George’s County through a partnership with the Washington Commanders.

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The growth in Maryland mirrors a broader trend nationwide.

Backed by NFL support, girls flag football has gained traction at both the high school and collegiate levels.

The NCAA has recognized it as an emerging sport, and the International Olympic Committee announced in 2023 that flag football will debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.