As the sixth season of Georgia High School Association (GHSA) sanctioned flag football begins, Cobb County schools are aiming for another state championship. Over the past five seasons, Cobb teams have secured four state titles and two runner-up finishes, with recent championships won by Hillgrove High School in 2021, Pope High School in 2023 and 2024, and McEachern High School in 2024.
This year marks a change as all 16 Cobb high schools will compete in the newly established Division 5 (D5), reflecting the sport’s growth and popularity. Teams are split into two Areas for competition.
In Area 3, Pope Greyhounds start their title defense led by senior quarterback Abbey Bensman, who threw for 4,660 yards and 83 touchdowns last season. “Having Abbey back is huge,” said Pope head coach Kevin Fraser. “She’s like a coach on the field and even calls plays at times. Her knowledge of the game, strong arm, accuracy, and decision-making really set her apart.”
Allatoona High School looks to return to its previous form with senior quarterback Lyla Paradiso and receiver Alex Harris leading the offense. Head coach Jordan Davis noted that senior Aubrey Moore will be an important addition to their defense: “is an incredible all-around athlete who will be a difference maker.”
Harrison High School welcomes new head coach Griffin Wattley as they seek to build on last year’s record nine wins. Wattley praised junior Nickeal Pruitt: “Her ability to affect the quarterback and the entire offensive play is unlike anyone else in Cobb.”
Kell Longhorns return juniors Maddie Harden (quarterback), Marleigh Grace (wide receiver), and Brynna Burrus (defender). Burrus holds more than 150 career flag pulls.
Lassiter High School has first-year head coach Campbell Price looking to improve on last season’s performance with returning players Emma Andrews and Kate Campbell contributing on both sides of the ball.
North Cobb Warriors feature standout Amaia Hardy at running back and safety as they aim for a deeper postseason run after last year’s early exit.
Walton High School hopes for a turnaround from an injury-plagued season with freshman quarterback Lola McMasters now starting alongside junior wide receiver Aniyah Boyette.
Kennesaw Mountain High School and Sprayberry High School complete Area 3’s lineup.
In Area 4, McEachern enters after an undefeated season under head coach Jake Burgdorf. “We will be very competitive again this season. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish,” Burgdorf said. The team returns seniors Saniyah Dickens and Desirae Holley but must replace graduate Chelsea Njoku, who was responsible for 89 touchdowns last year.
Holley was rated as one of Georgia’s top players by MaxPreps: “one of the top big-play threats in the country.” She recorded 90 catches for 1,256 yards and scored 27 touchdowns last season.
Campbell Spartans begin their inaugural flag football campaign under Jaaran Nesbitt with Kennedy Lee at quarterback. Hillgrove faces a rebuilding year led by junior Melanie Dansby following last year’s playoff appearance.
Osborne Cardinals look to improve from their first season; head coach Rico Reese commented: “Last year’s 1-14 record does not tell the full story of the grit and determination our program displayed in every game.” Senior QB Faith Harvey leads Osborne’s offense alongside new receivers Saanyla Cameron and Airis Jacobs-Alston.
Pebblebrook narrowly missed playoffs previously but returns with optimism under Asim Narcisse-Williams: “With a solid core of veteran returners and an exciting influx of young talent, our team’s energy and focus are stronger than ever.” Senior Mequiziya White quarterbacks Pebblebrook with Amiracle Page at wide receiver.
South Cobb had its first winning season in 2024; junior Aliceson Lewis returns at quarterback after accounting for 29 touchdowns as a sophomore.
Wheeler rounds out Area 4 teams competing against defending champions McEachern.
Cobb athletes have gained national attention through events such as participation in Atlanta Falcons Regional Flag Football Competition. Four current district players—Dickens, Holley, Zoey Moriarty from McEachern, and Hardy from North Cobb—helped win a regional championship before competing nationally in Canton, Ohio during an NFL Flag tournament broadcast on television.
