Over the past several years, the Colts have led the effort to develop girls flag as an IHSAA-sanctioned sport.
The Colts created the Colts Girls High School Flag Football League in 2023 with eight teams. In 2024, the league expanded to 27 teams, qualifying to be an emerging sport. To become eligible as a sanctioned sport, 100 schools must compete while in emerging sport status.
To reach this goal, the Colts launched the "Road to 100" with a $1 million investment to support and sustain the launch of 100 girls teams. Costs associated with launching a team typically range from $5,000 to $8,000 for equipment, uniforms, training and coaching stipends. To help offset those costs, the Colts invested up to $10,000 each in the schools that joined the Road to 100.
Colts Girls Flag Football is fueled by Gatorade and sponsored in part by Peyton Manning Children's Hospital. The Colts have prioritized flag football development to introduce the game to new players and fans, especially girls, who traditionally have not had the same opportunities to learn and play the game as boys.
Schools and communities interested in fielding a team in 2026 may visit Colts.com/GirlsFlag.