As the sixth season of Georgia High School Association (GHSA) sanctioned flag football begins, teams across Cobb County are preparing for competition in a new division. Cobb County schools have established themselves as strong contenders in the sport, having won four state titles over the past five seasons. Hillgrove High School claimed the championship in 2021, Pope High School in both 2023 and 2024, and McEachern High School also secured a title in 2024. The district has also seen runner-up finishes from Hillgrove in 2020 and Allatoona High School in 2023.
This year marks a change as GHSA has expanded divisions due to increased participation statewide. All 16 high schools from Cobb will now compete together in Division 5 (D5), split into two areas similar to regions used for other sports.
In Area 3, Pope Greyhounds begin their defense of last year’s title with quarterback Abbey Bensman returning after earning the title of Georgia AAA Player of the Year for her performance last season. Head coach Kevin Fraser said, “Having Abbey back is huge. 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.”
Other challengers include Allatoona High School, led by senior quarterback Lyla Paradiso and receiver Alex Harris. Head coach Jordan Davis commented on his team’s defense: senior Aubrey Moore “is an incredible all-around athlete who will be a difference maker.” Harrison High School welcomes new head coach Griffin Wattley and looks to build on last year’s record with junior Nickeal Pruitt expected to play a key role: “Her ability to affect the quarterback and the entire offensive play is unlike anyone else in Cobb,” Wattley said.
Kell Longhorns return several notable juniors including Maddie Harden at quarterback, Marleigh Grace at wide receiver, and Brynna Burrus as an all-state defender who leads her program in career flag pulls.
Lassiter High School brings first-year head coach Campbell Price who aims to build upon last season’s foundation with help from seniors Emma Andrews and sophomore Kate Campbell.
North Cobb features standout Amaia Hardy playing both running back and safety positions while Walton hopes for improvement following an injury-filled season; freshman Lola McMasters takes over at quarterback targeting junior Aniyah Boyette.
Kennesaw Mountain High School and Sprayberry High School complete Area 3’s lineup.
In Area 4, McEachern enters after finishing undefeated last year under head coach Jake Burgdorf who stated: “We will be very competitive again this season. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish.” Seniors Saniyah Dickens and Desirae Holley lead McEachern this year; Holley was ranked ninth overall statewide by MaxPreps for her receiving numbers last season—90 catches for 1,256 yards with 27 touchdowns—and described as “one of the top big-play threats in the country.”
Newcomers Campbell Spartans start their inaugural campaign led by head coach Jaaran Nesbitt with senior Kennedy Lee at quarterback. Hillgrove returns junior Melanie Dansby amid what could be a rebuilding year while Osborne Cardinals enter their second season hoping for improvement under head coach Rico Reese: “Last year’s 1-14 record does not tell the full story of grit and determination our program displayed,” Reese said.
Pebblebrook narrowly missed playoffs previously but returns with optimism led by senior Mequiziya White at quarterback according to head coach 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.” South Cobb experienced its first winning record last year; junior Aliceson Lewis returns as starting quarterback after accounting for nearly thirty touchdowns as a sophomore.
Wheeler High School rounds out Area 4 among those seeking to challenge reigning champions.
Several athletes from Cobb recently competed nationally when four current players participated on a squad that won the Atlanta Falcons Regional Flag Football Competition before advancing to play at Canton, Ohio during an NFL Flag tournament broadcast nationally. These players included Dickens, Holley (both from McEachern), Zoey Moriarty (McEachern), and Hardy (North Cobb).
The growing success draws increasing attention locally and nationally as more female athletes achieve recognition through flag football programs across Cobb County.
