Lessons from the Field: What Girls Playing Flag Football Teaches Us About Women and Leadership
Football has always been a big part of our family, thanks to my husband's lifelong passion for the game. From backyard scrimmages to recreational leagues, and his unwavering loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers, football has shaped many of our memories. Over time, I’ve grown to love watching the sport as well. But neither of us ever imagined that one day our daughter would be out on the field herself—especially at the high school level.
This year, she earned a spot on the high school flag football team, in only the second year that California has officially sanctioned the sport for girls. Watching her team on the field has shown me that this sport is more than just a game. It’s a transformative experience, helping these girls develop leadership skills that will benefit them long after high school.
Here are five key lessons from girls' flag football that apply directly to leadership in the workplace:
1. Adaptability in Action
Flag football moves quickly, and players must adjust in real-time. When a play breaks down, they pivot, problem-solve, and make quick decisions. Leaders in any field face similar challenges—unexpected situations arise, and adaptability is key to staying ahead.
2. The Power of Teamwork
Football is the ultimate team sport—no one player can dominate the game alone. Success relies on trust, communication, and collaboration. The same goes for leadership. Great leaders build cohesive teams where individual success is tied to collective achievement.
3. Confidence Under Pressure
Flag football teaches these girls to trust their instincts, take risks, and stay calm in high-pressure moments. This kind of confidence is critical for leadership, especially for women who often face additional scrutiny in decision-making roles. Sports help build that boldness—the courage to lead and make impactful choices.
4. Resilience in the Face of Setbacks
Setbacks are part of football and leadership alike. A failed play or a loss doesn’t mean it’s over. These girls learn resilience—how to bounce back from challenges, learn from mistakes, and push forward. The ability to persevere is a defining trait of successful leaders.
5. Visibility Matters
Seeing girls play a sport traditionally reserved for men sends a powerful message: representation matters. When women are visible in leadership roles, they open doors for others. My daughter’s experience being coached by women underscores how important it is to see strong female role models leading the way, both on and off the field.
I’m grateful to the pioneers who fought to make flag football an official sport for girls. Thanks to initiatives like the NFL’s “Females in Flag,” these young women have more opportunities to play—and grow as leaders.
As we watch these girls excel on the field, we’re witnessing more than a game. They’re learning to lead with resilience, teamwork, and boldness. These are future CEOs, community leaders, and innovators. Football is shaping not just their athletic skills but their leadership potential.
So, what can we learn from these girls? That women have always been capable of leading with strength and vision. They just need the space to show it. And now, they have the field.