Empowering Young Athletes in Arlington ISD Girls' Flag Football

Published on April 10, 2025

Arlington High School Girls Flag Football

By Cynthia Lemus, Office of Communication

The excitement around high school girls’ flag football is growing fast in Arlington ISD, and it’s not hard to see why. With support from the Dallas Cowboys and a rapidly expanding league, this sport is opening new doors for young women in athletics.

"I believe this sport is going to go global. The Cowboys and other NFL teams are now launching leagues for girls. We're advocating for UIL to officially recognize it," said Coach Brooke Kolanek.

Arlington ISD has six high schools participating in this pilot Girls High School Flag Football program. The schools include Arlington High School, Bowie High School, Lamar High School, Martin High SchoolSam Houston High School and Seguin High School.

“It might be intimidating at first because football is typically seen as a boys' sport, but it's actually really fun!” said Kira Davis, a member of Arlington High School’s flag football team.

Over the past nine months, the Dallas Cowboys have collaborated with school districts and partners statewide to create varsity-level 7-on-7 programs, set to compete in the Spring of 2025.

“I love being part of this team. Everyone is super cool, has great energy, and the coaches are amazing,” said Cameron Helbing, a member of Arlington High School’s flag football team.

With such passion and energy fueling this movement, it’s clear that flag football in Arlington ISD is more than just a game, it’s a game changer. These athletes are proving that sports aren’t about gender; they’re about talent, teamwork, and opportunity.

Don’t miss out on the action! Here’s the rest of the season schedule:

Game #3: April 12 @ Lamar

  • 9:30 a.m.: Martin vs. Arlington
  • 10:30 a.m.: Sam Houston vs. Lamar
  • 11:30 a.m.: Bowie vs. Seguin

Game #4: April 26 @ Sam Houston

  • 9:30 a.m.: Arlington vs. Lamar
  • 10:30 a.m.: Bowie vs. Martin
  • 11:30 a.m.: Seguin vs. Sam Houston

Game #5: May 3 @ Seguin

  • 9:30 a.m.: Bowie vs. Arlington
  • 10:30 a.m.: Lamar vs. Seguin
  • 11:30 a.m.: Sam Houston vs. Martin

Playoff Tournament: May 10 (TBD)