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The Anniston High School flag football team has seen significant growth since its founding five years ago. Initially, the program started with around a dozen players but has now expanded to 19 athletes from seventh through 12th grade. Head coach Jessica Young, a physical education teacher and assistant athletics director, emphasized the academic success of the players, noting that several starters are dual-enrollment students.

Flag football, a non-contact sport played with a cloth tassel instead of a tackle, has gained popularity statewide, with over 170 schools now participating.

The expansion of the program was made possible through grants from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and the Atlanta Falcons, which provided essential equipment. Among the team, senior quarterback Arianna Storey has been a constant presence since the program's inception. Storey, who grew up as one of few girls in her family, found a platform for her football aspirations through flag football.

She expressed her gratitude to Coach Young, stating that the program has evolved from uncertain beginnings to a championship contender.

Storey, a multi-sport athlete excelling in basketball and softball, highlighted the program's transformation, calling this year one of her best. The team's success this season is attributed to rigorous preparation and a shared goal of winning the postseason. Coach Young highlighted the team's dedication to practice and their shared vision of winning the championship or making history.

Beyond the scoreboard, Young prioritizes academics and character development, ensuring that all starters are enrolled in dual-enrollment courses. She stressed that education comes first, aiming to produce productive citizens. Storey, a senior, plans to study electrical engineering in college while continuing her flag football career, targeting colleges such as Enterprise State Community College, Alabama State University, and Faulkner University.

The Bulldogs play their home games at Lott-Mosby Memorial Stadium, with game schedules available on Anniston City Schools’ social media pages. Tickets for games are priced at $8 or $10 at the gate.