Prince William County school board endorses permanent girls flag football program
Summary
The Prince William County School Board unanimously adopted a resolution supporting the permanent adoption and expansion of girls flag football after celebrating the division's inaugural season and partnership with the Washington Commanders.
Prince William County School Board members voted unanimously Jan. 7 to adopt a resolution recommending girls flag football be established as a permanent fall sport and be funded and staffed consistent with other high school athletics.
The resolution, moved by Brentsville District member Erica Trudenick and seconded by Jennifer Wall, noted robust participation in the inaugural 2025 season — 12 of the division's 13 high schools fielded teams — and cited research on the benefits of expanded athletic opportunities for girls. Trudenick said the season’s momentum was aided by a regional partnership: "Earlier this year, Prince William County Schools partnered with the Washington Commanders to introduce girls to the sport through clinics" and the team "provided uniforms, equipment, and resources that helped our programs get off the ground." The motion passed unanimously.
The board’s resolution asks the division to fund girls flag football at every high school, ensure Title IX compliance, and formally request that the Virginia High School League recognize girls flag football as a sanctioned sport statewide. It also directs the division to send a letter to the Virginia Board of Education urging support for VHSL recognition and commits the board to advocate for related policy and investment.
During Thriving Futures Focus the board honored the Brentsville District High School team as the inaugural county champions. Coach Baltimore praised the players and thanked the Commanders and volunteers for support: "All these girls did an excellent job. She was the best player in Prince William County, Natalie Marvin," he said, introducing seniors and other team members.
The action is ceremonial and policy-directed; it does not, by itself, create VHSL recognition or change statewide rules. Implementation — including budget allocations, facility scheduling, and coaching assignments — will proceed through the school division’s usual budget and operations processes.
