Girls flag football continues to gain momentum in Section VI as teams gear up for the upcoming season. Last year, Fredonia emerged victorious in the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Athletic Association Division, defeating Jamestown in a thrilling 14-12 showdown. Head coach Nick Bertrando praised the dedication and skill of the players, highlighting their rapid growth in the sport.
As the sport expands across the state, the first-ever state championship is set to take place at Cortland High School in June, with teams competing in Division 1 and Division 2. Despite the growing popularity of girls flag football, some schools, like Clymer/Sherman/Panama, Chautauqua Lake, and Cassadaga Valley, have opted not to field teams this season due to logistical challenges.
With a more competitive schedule this year, teams are facing increased demands in preparation and gameplay. The 30 schools competing are divided into three divisions based on student population, with Division 1 featuring larger schools like Jamestown. In Division 2 South, local teams like Dunkirk, Fredonia, and Southwestern will battle it out for supremacy.
While some schools may struggle to field teams due to conflicting sports commitments, the dedication and enthusiasm of the players remain unwavering. As the season kicks off, fans can expect intense matchups and fierce competition on the field. Stay tuned for more updates as the girls flag football season unfolds.