Seahawks Flag Football Enters First Sanctioned Season

When the Peninsula Seahawks take the field this winter, they’ll do so as part of something historic — not just for their school, but for the state of Washington.

Girls flag football is now an officially sanctioned Washington Interscholastic Activities Association sport, the first added to the WIAA lineup since girls bowling in 1999. The decision, approved in April and finalized in August, follows two years of pilot programs that spread rapidly across the state. For Peninsula, it means a full schedule, postseason opportunities, and the validation of a sport that has captured national attention.

Head coach Brent Campbell, now in his second season, said the change feels like the next natural step for a program that’s grown faster than anyone expected.

“It’s exciting,” Campbell said. “We’re going to have tryouts this year, and that’s new for us. It’s just growing in popularity. Anytime we can get kids doing something active and away from screens, it’s huge.”

The Seahawks’ roster has nearly tripled from 15 players in their debut season to 42 this winter, driven mostly by word of mouth and returning players who helped launch the sport last season.

“The girls from last year had so much fun that they’ve been talking about it ever since,” Campbell said. “They’re the reason we’ve had such an increase. A lot of freshmen are trying out, which is how you build programs.”

The sport favors speed and strategy over size or power, a balance Campbell says levels the playing field.

“You learn real quick it’s a speed sport,” he said. “But what I love most is effort. We value players with great attitudes and teamwork. If you give 100%, there’s a spot for you.”

Peninsula was recognized last year with the league’s Sportsmanship Award, something Campbell takes pride in.

Returning players Grace Tucker, Sydney Smith, Fiona Bean, and Jenna McCabe headline the 2025-26 roster. Campbell describes them as “warriors” who compete relentlessly and set the tone for the team.

“They’re such competitors,” he said.

Last year’s success helped spark interest across the region, with more schools and WIAA approval paving the way for official playoffs and a state tournament that caps off the season Feb. 13 and 14.

Across the U.S., flag football popularity is surging. Sixteen states have now sanctioned girls flag football, and the sport will debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Campbell said Washington’s inclusion reflects that same momentum.

“If you look at what’s happening in places like Florida, the talent is amazing,” he said. “That’s where these girls want to be — and they will be, eventually.”

For many of Peninsula’s players, flag football offers something new: a chance to compete in a sport once reserved for boys, without the physical risks of tackle football.

Campbell sees it as more than just an athletic opportunity; it’s a way to build confidence, connection, and lasting memories.

“I’m a huge believer in playing multiple sports and enjoying your teen years,” he said. “At the end of the season, what they remember isn’t the scores. It’s the camaraderie, the fun, the songs they sang on the bus. That’s what makes this so rewarding.”