The Renton High School girls flag football team is helping lead the growth of one of Washington’s fastest-rising high school sports, as participation and visibility continue to increase statewide. Introduced in recent years with support from the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) and other groups like the Seattle Seahawks, girls flag football has quickly gained traction by offering a high-speed action-packed game. At Renton, the program has drawn strong interest from student-athletes across multiple sports, creating a roster that blends athleticism with football IQ. Coaches and players alike say the sport provides new opportunities for female athletes to compete at a high level, develop many different types of skills, and represent their school.
Here is an interview with one of the players of the team, Ah’Mia Johnson:
Q: How long have you been playing girls flag football, and what motivated you to join the team?
A: This is my first year playing flag football and my mom motivated me to join the team.
Q: What does it mean to you to be part of a growing sport in Washington?
A: It’s very exciting, I get to help the sport get recognition and respect now that it is an official sport. I also get to meet new people that play this sport.
Q: What are some of the main things that playing flag football has taught you?
A: To be more enthusiastic and look at the positive side of things more often.
Q: What position do you play and what do you enjoy most about having that role on the field?
A: On defense I am a linebacker and I enjoy pulling flags in the very front. On offense I am a wide receiver, and I enjoy being the last person they can think of to get the ball.
Q: Who has supported you the most on this journey and how have they helped you?
A: My mom and the girls on the team. They’ve helped me understand the game more and make me wanna come to practice and work hard!
Please come out and support our girls flag football team! Go RedHawkS!
