House Special Rules panel urges Georgia high schools to start girls flag football

At a meeting of the Special Rules Committee, members approved House Resolution 347 urging high schools in Georgia to establish girls flag football programs.

Representative Cox introduced the resolution, saying, "This resolution is to continue and advance girls sports in the state of Georgia and hopefully across the country. But it is in regards to flag football." The committee voted by voice and the resolution passed.

The resolution comes after what supporters described as quick growth of girls flag football in Georgia. Representative Cox estimated there are "probably close to 100 teams" currently playing in the state. Supporters told the committee the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) circulated information to school systems after the resolution was filed and that professional organizations have backed the sport.

Samuel Bridal Crenshaw Jr., a reporter with 92.9 The Game FM Radio who said he has covered state championships for Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB), told the committee the timing of the sport helps participation. "If girls can play softball, the flag football is situated right between softball season and the start of basketball season. So girls are encouraged from other sports to participate," Crenshaw said.

The committee heard about outside financial support to help schools start programs. Representative Cox and others referenced an Arthur Blank Foundation grant offering "$5,000 to $10,000" to help schools launch girls flag football teams. Committee members also noted support from the Atlanta Falcons and the National Football League.

Committee members praised local programs. Representative McQueen said Marietta High has developed a program that produced back-to-back champions, and Representative Griffin noted Bowen High School in Milledgeville fields a team. The committee also heard that Tyrone Poole, a former NFL player, is coaching the women's flag team at Reinhardt University.

The committee moved for a "do pass" recommendation and, by a voice vote, approved the resolution. The chair instructed the author to sign the committee form; the transcript records staff handing a form to Representative Cox after passage.

While supporters emphasized growth and available startup grants, the resolution as presented is an urging measure; it does not appropriate funding or change school policy by itself.

Votes at the committee were taken by voice; no roll-call counts were provided in the transcript.