Barlow Girls Flag Football Team Wins Oregon State Championship
Gresham, OR – May 17, 2025 – The Barlow High School girls flag football team celebrated a historic victory on Saturday, securing the state championship with a thrilling 14-7 win against defending champions South Salem. The match took place at Barlow High School, marking a proud moment for the Bruins as they captured the title in only their second season.
Entering the tournament as a No. 5 seed, Barlow showcased their determination by defeating No. 12 Tualatin (12-7) in the first round, advancing to a challenging quarterfinal against No. 4 Crook County, which they won 21-6. A close semifinal match with Cinderella story David Douglas ended 13-7, setting the stage for the championship showdown.
The final game saw memorable performances, particularly from seniors Isabelle Unger and Elizabeth Weber. Unger opened the scoring with a skillful touchdown run, and Weber delivered a game-defining 60-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Ava Gallo. The Bruins’ defensive efforts, bolstered by players like Sandy Hanna, limited South Salem’s scoring chances.
"We’ve all grown together as a team," Weber reflected. "Many of us didn’t have much experience in sports or football. It’s been amazing to see our improvement."
Girls flag football became an "emerging sport" under OSAA regulations in 2024, allowing for better organizational support as interest in the game soared. This season, participation numbers grew from 32 to 47 teams statewide, reflecting the sport’s expanding appeal.
The Bruins’ victory not only highlights their achievement but also underscores the positive momentum for girls’ sports in Oregon. As players look forward to future seasons, the joy of newfound friendships and competition resonates throughout the team. "It’s tons of fun, and we can’t wait for next year," Weber concluded.
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