MISSION, Texas (April 2, 2026) — Mission CISD third through fifth-grade students made history as girls took the field in the district’s first girls flag football games, held March 23 and March 25 through a partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Mission. Though flag football has been part of Mission CISD elementary programs in previous years, this marked the first year the district hosted games specifically for girls.
The inaugural girl’s flag football games featured students from all Mission CISD elementary schools participating in 7-on-7 games as part of the after-school physical education program. Games were organized by high school feeder patterns, with Mission High School feeder schools playing March 23 and Veterans Memorial High School feeder schools competing March 25.
The event drew strong attendance and support from parents, students and staff, highlighting growing interest in girls flag football across the district.
Expanding Opportunities for Students
Mission CISD Physical Education Coordinator Martina Carrillo helped bring the program to the district after seeing the sport grow in popularity across other regions. Carrillo, who also founded the Mission Ballers elementary basketball program, said the goal is to continue creating new opportunities for students through athletics.
“Our goal is to create opportunities for students to stay active, learn teamwork and build confidence through sports,” Carrillo said. “Programs like Mission Ballers and now girls flag football help students discover their interests early and develop skills that will benefit them as they move into junior high, high school and beyond.”
With support from elementary coaches, district administration and the Boys & Girls Club of Mission, the district successfully organized the first year of games, giving elementary students the opportunity to learn the sport and compete in a structured environment.
The program aims to teach students teamwork, sportsmanship, game fundamentals and character development while encouraging students to stay active after school and explore new athletic opportunities.
Building Toward the Future
District leaders hope the program will help build interest and skill development that carries into junior high and high school athletics. Girls flag football continues to grow across Texas, with several colleges and universities now offering programs and potential athletic scholarship opportunities for students.
The sport is also gaining national attention, as girls flag football will be introduced in the 2028 Summer Olympics, further expanding opportunities for student-athletes.
Mission CISD plans to continue growing the program and providing additional opportunities for students to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities.