The Baltimore Ravens announced on Apr. 14 that they are expanding their partnership with Under Armour, Baltimore County Public Schools, and St. Mary’s County Public Schools to provide grant funding and uniforms for high school girls flag football starting in the fall of 2026.
The initiative aims to further develop opportunities for female student-athletes by adding 27 new schools from Baltimore and St. Mary’s Counties, bringing total participation to 132 high schools across Maryland. The program is moving toward its goal of becoming a state-sanctioned sport, which would create lasting opportunities for girls statewide.
To date, the Ravens have provided over $1 million in funding for the initiative throughout Maryland. Each participating team will receive $10,000 to support development and sustainability at their respective schools. Under Armour will continue outfitting custom uniforms for each team as part of the collaboration.
Brad Downs, senior vice president of marketing for the Ravens, said: “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. We’re also excited that the addition of St. Mary’s secures full commitment from the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference. 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.”
Micheal Sye, director of athletics at Baltimore County Public Schools said: “Girls’ flag football is more than a new sport – it’s a movement that expands opportunity and redefines what’s possible. 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.” Ryan Hanley from St. Mary’s County Public Schools added: “Adding girls flag football in St. Mary’s County is a game-changer for our student-athletes. With the support of the Baltimore Ravens, we’re not just expanding opportunities – we’re creating a true varsity pathway for girls to compete, lead and represent their schools at the highest level.”
The program began in 2023 with Frederick County’s public high schools before expanding into other counties over subsequent years through collaborations including those with NFL teams such as Washington Commanders.
Interest in girls flag football has grown nationwide following endorsements by organizations like NFL; it was recognized by NCAA as an emerging sport after being included by International Olympic Committee among events scheduled for Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.
