Cowboys and Texans Push UIL to Sanction Girls Flag Football in Texas

Source: Associated Press · By Associated Press Staff · Jun 10, 2026

The Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans jointly urged the University Interscholastic League (UIL) to officially sanction girls flag football in Texas. The proposal comes as participation continues to surge statewide, with more than 240 schools and 5,500 athletes already involved in organized competition. Texas could become one of the nation's next states to officially sanction the sport.

Representatives from the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans appeared before the UIL Legislative Council to advocate for the official sanctioning of girls flag football in Texas. The move follows rapid growth across the state, where participation has increased dramatically over the past several years. UIL officials advanced the discussion by directing staff to prepare implementation plans and survey school superintendents regarding future sanctioning opportunities. The proposal received support from school districts, coaches, and NFL organizations that have invested heavily in growing the game. The Cowboys and Texans have already helped establish hundreds of scholastic girls flag football teams throughout Texas and recently partnered to host the first Girls Flag Texas State Championship. Supporters believe sanctioning would provide greater opportunities for female athletes while creating a direct pathway from youth participation to collegiate and Olympic competition.