The flags and ponytails are flying in Eagan.
Minnesota's second annual high school girls flag football state championship at TCO Stadium is showcasing top teams like undefeated Mahtomedi, Anoka, and Minnetonka.
This year's event highlights the huge growth of the sport, with 51 schools now playing.
It's testament to the sport's rapid rise and the Vikings' key support that's removing financial hurdles for players like those on the Burnsville Blaze.
"It's just such an empowering thing to see our little sisters are on the team for Burnsville, go Burnsville, and It's great to watch them go out there and see what should have been all along," said one fan.
Fans and players alike say the event is helping to underscore the bright future of girls flag football across Minnesota.
Organized and sponsored by the Vikings, the spring league is not sanctioned by the Minnesota State High School League but is a step toward formalizing the sport at the high school level.
Also helping raise the profile of flag football is that the sport will make its debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, with both men's and women's events. The NFL has approved players to compete in flag football at the Olympics, and some NFL players are reportedly considering competing including the Vikings own Justin Jefferson.