Walt Whitman High beat Wise High School in the semifinals to advance to the Maryland Championship, but the real celebration is for the growth of girls flag.
BALTIMORE — Cheers and tears filled M&T Bank Stadium Thursday night as high school athletes from across Prince George’s and Montgomery counties competed in the Maryland Girls Flag Football Finals — a milestone moment for a sport that’s still in its early seasons.
For many players, it was more than just a game. It was a dream realized.
“This is just a really great opportunity for us, and we’re just so happy,” said Sydney Altman, a player from Walt Whitman High School.
Teams from both counties fought their way through the semifinals for the chance to play on the same field as the Baltimore Ravens. The passion was visible — from sideline smiles to emotional embraces.
“Just to come out here, represent for the women but not just for the women — for the sport — it feels amazing,” said Kennedy Wyatt of Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School.
For some seniors, the game marked the culmination of years of work.
“Being a senior, a captain and making it here — it’s everything in the world and more,” said Natalie Kelley, also from Wise High.
The program has received support from both local NFL teams — the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens — helping elevate the visibility of girls’ flag football across the region.
Former Washington players Brian Mitchell and Kevin Barnes have worked with the teams since the program’s early days.
“We saw them getting their uniforms, and now to see how people build up — you can see a lot of good play out here,” Mitchell said.
Barnes added, “Every time I get the chance to lock in with the ladies, I tell them, ‘You guys are the pioneers.’”
The excitement extended to parents in the stands.
“It’s so very special for us because girls’ sports are always kind of on the back burner, but now we’re on the front burner,” said Margaret Mackall, a Prince George’s County parent.
Ravens players, including Zay Flowers and Keaton Mitchell, attended to cheer on the athletes.
“It’s exciting to see girls get to have the same opportunity as men,” Flowers said. “When I was younger, my sister played football with us.”
Mitchell added, “My mom played football, so I had to call her earlier to show her.”
As the program continues to grow, players say they hope this is just the beginning.
“I’m excited to see it grow,” Kelley said. “I’ve never been part of something from start to finish, and hopefully my finish is the Olympics.”
Wyatt added, “I’m proud of my team, proud of the sport — we’ve brought flag football to life.”