News Summary

Badin High School has made history by winning the first-ever Ohio Girls High School Flag Football State Championship, defeating Willoughby South with a score of 40-16. The team concluded their season with an impressive 13-3 record, reflecting their teamwork and determination. This victory showcases the rising popularity and potential growth of girls’ flag football in Ohio, supported by local organizations and future plans for expanded teams and facilities. Badin’s achievement sets a significant milestone for female athletes and the sport’s future.

Badin High School Takes Home the Title in Girls Flag Football

In an exciting showdown held at Massillon’s Paul Brown Tiger Stadium, Badin High School clinched the title of the inaugural Ohio Girls High School Flag Football State Championship by defeating Willoughby South with a commanding score of 40-16. This victory not only secured their place in sports history but also marked a significant milestone as it is the program’s very first state championship in flag football, a sport they embraced in its first year.

A Remarkable Season for Badin

The Badin team wrapped up their season with a commendable 13-3 record, which speaks volumes about their teamwork and dedication. The girls showcased their skills and determination in the lead-up to the state championship, having triumphed over both Berkshire and Mount Notre Dame during the Battle of Ohio tournament.

This season has been a testament to the hard work and enthusiasm that the young athletes have displayed both on and off the field. The dedication didn’t come just from the players. The coaches, who are still learning the ins and outs of flag football, played a crucial role in guiding the team through this exciting journey. Their commitment to the sport paralleled that of the girls, making this victory a collective achievement.

Community and Support Behind the Scene

Badin’s athletic director expressed immense pride in the coaches and players for their extraordinary dedication and effort. Their hard work has paid off, leading to a championship that celebrates the spirit of competitive sports. Alongside the support from Badin, the statewide flag football tournament received a significant boost from collaboration between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns. This partnership has not only provided a platform for the teams to compete but also laid the groundwork for the future of girls’ flag football in Ohio.

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Growth

As the Badin athletic department looks to the future, they are excited about the potential growth of girls’ flag football. Plans are already in the works to establish varsity and junior varsity teams next year, emphasizing their commitment to expanding opportunities for female athletes. In a sign of community investment, Badin High School is set to open a $15 million on-campus stadium named the Terry Malone Field at Lanni Family Stadium. This state-of-the-art facility will kick off by hosting soccer games starting August 15 and is expected to become a hub for sporting events, making it a fantastic venue for the next season of flag football.

The Rising Popularity of Girls’ Flag Football

The growth of girls’ flag football is reflected in the increasing number of participants. In 2025, around 350 student-athletes from 20 local schools in the Greater Cincinnati area took part in girls’ flag football, a dramatic rise from just six schools in 2024. The enthusiasm surrounding the sport is equally encouraged by national trends, with women’s flag football set to make its debut in the Olympics in 2028, highlighting the exciting times ahead for aspiring athletes.

Championship Brent is Just the Beginning

On May 10, the Cincinnati Bengals hosted the city’s Girls High School Flag Football Championship featuring some fierce competitors like Mount Notre Dame, Badin, Seton, and Shroder. The Ohio High School Athletic Association is actively considering options for potentially sponsoring girls’ flag football in the future, which would further enhance the infrastructure for this rapidly growing sport.

As the dust settles on this exhilarating championship season, one thing is crystal clear: Badin High School has not just made history but has also set the stage for a bright future in girls’ flag football. The support from both the community and local organizations is bound to keep the momentum going, making the upcoming seasons a thrilling experience for everyone involved.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

York College Welcomes New Assistant Coach for Women’s Basketball
Brawl Disrupts Susquehanna Township Football Showcase
Lebanon High School Football Faces Big Changes
La Porte High School Unveils New $56 Million Football Stadium
Florida High School Spring Football Games Set to Begin
NDA Girls’ Tennis Team Secures 5-0 Victory Over Duxbury
Iowa High School Boys Soccer Postseason Begins
West Seattle High School Softball Team Dominates in Championship Opener
Track and Field Achievements Shine in Eugene
Cleveland Honors Girls Flag Football Coaches

Additional Resources