The Buffalo Bills have named the Week 1 High School Girls Flag Football Coaches of the Week for 2026, honoring coaches from Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. Each selected coach receives $1,000 for their teams, with potential for an additional $1,000 towards the Coach of the Year award. Christopher Edwards of Pioneer, Eric Thurley of Webster Thomas, and Brad Keysor of East Syracuse Minoa exemplify dedication and success in coaching flag football programs. The initiative highlights the growing popularity of girls' flag football in New York State, with increasing participation and support from local foundations.

By the Numbers
  • 255 public schools across New York State are now participating in girls flag football.
  • Syracuse area schools now include 91 teams from Sections VI, V, and III, reflecting significant growth since a total of only 20 teams in 2022.
State of Play
  • The Bills are in their second year of a three-year initiative supporting girls flag football with grant funding and equipment.
  • In 2025, three of the five NYSPHSAA state champions in flag football were from Western New York.
What's Next

The girls flag football program is anticipated to continue expanding, particularly with the NCAA recognizing flag football as an emerging sport for women. This could lead to increased support and opportunities for female athletes aiming for collegiate-level play, coinciding with flag football's debut in the 2028 Olympics.

Bottom Line

The recognition of high school coaches in girls flag football underscores the sport's rapid growth and importance in fostering young female athletes, paving the way for greater opportunities and recognition in the future.