As the countdown to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics begins, women's flag football is not just entering the scene, it's exploding in popularity. Spearheaded by pioneers like Jo Overstreet, a standout flag football player from Texas, the sport is transitioning from a casual pastime to an international sensation.

The once overlooked sport has gained new momentum, driven by a growing number of girls' teams and leagues across the U.S. and internationally. The official recognition of flag football as a high school varsity sport in eight states, alongside the NFL's backing, signals a new era for women's athletics.

For Overstreet, a former University of Houston basketball player eyeing a spot on the Olympic team, the sport's Olympic inclusion is a historic moment.

“This is so big for women to be able to say, ‘I have a dream to play football’ — and to actually know that opportunity is really there,” she said, via Pat Graham of the Associated Press. “Just saying that to myself now, I’m still in shock.”

Flag football's growing appeal

Flag football, traditionally seen as a schoolyard activity, has gained significant visibility. It's a sport where speed and strategy converge, and every player can be a receiver. USA Football's research indicates a 178% increase in participation among girls aged 6-12 between 2014 and 2022, showcasing its growing appeal.

Stories like that of 14-year-old Makayla Martinez from Phoenix, who transitioned from soccer to flag football, exemplify the sport's expanding reach. States like Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and New York have already integrated flag football in high school sports, with others following suit.

“My dad was like, ‘There’s this girls’ team that’s starting. Do you want to give it a try?’” Martinez said. “I was like, ‘No, not really.’ Because I only had played on a boys team. But I gave it a shot. I went for it. I just started focusing on flag football, because I saw that it was growing.”

Flag football ascends to Olympic heights

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The sport's growth is not just national but familial. The Klam family from Austin, Texas, pivoted from baseball to flag football, creating Texas Fury, an all-girls travel team. Their daughter Ashlea, a flag football scholarship recipient, is a testament to the sport's growing opportunities.

Ashlea's achievement mirrors the sport's Olympic journey. “My daughter getting an opportunity to go play in college — it’s one of those dreams come true,” Jason Klam, Ashlea's father, said.

“And with the sport being added to the Olympics, the future is just tremendous,” he added.

This excitement extends to the international rivalry, particularly between the U.S. and Mexico. The upcoming Olympics promises a thrilling showcase of talent, with the selection process for Team USA beginning next season. Scott Hallenbeck, CEO of USA Football, describes the Olympic announcement as “rocket fuel” for the sport's explosive growth.

Amidst this rise, players like Madison Fulford, a national team member, offers advice to aspiring players: “Just have fun … Have a fun time bonding with your teammates, your sisters.”