NCHSAA to sanction girls' flag football, boys' volleyball for 2026-27

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) officially voted to sanction girls’ flag football and boys’ volleyball as championship sports in North Carolina, marking a major expansion of athletic opportunities for high school students across the state. Girls’ flag football has experienced rapid growth in North Carolina and nationally, driven by increasing student participation and support from organizations like the National Football League and the Carolina Panthers. The sport will now be governed under NFHS rules, with the official high school season taking place in the fall and the first NCHSAA state championship scheduled for late 2026. NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker described the decision as an important investment in the future of female student-athletes and emphasized the sport’s inclusive, fast-paced, and team-oriented nature. The sanctioning reflects the organization’s commitment to increasing participation opportunities and responding to student interest. The Carolina Panthers, led by owners David Tepper and Nicole Tepper, played a significant role in growing the sport statewide. The Panthers launched a pilot program in 2022 involving 19 schools, and participation has since expanded to more than 150 schools across North Carolina. Schools throughout the state are already preparing to add girls’ flag football programs. North East Carolina Prep Athletic Director Jamie Willoughby said her school plans to launch a program this fall due to growing interest from female athletes and expanding conference participation. The NCHSAA also sanctioned boys’ volleyball as an official championship sport after years of steady growth. The boys’ volleyball season will take place in the spring, with the first state championships scheduled for May 2027. School leaders and advocates noted that the sport gives students additional opportunities to compete and develop skills in a team environment. Sarah Conklin, director of the N.C. Boys High School Volleyball Association, said the decision recognizes years of growth and dedication by coaches, players, and supporters throughout the state. The NCHSAA plans to release additional details about championship formats, regulations, and implementation timelines in the coming months.