Three Girls from Nîmes Selected for France U17 Flag Football Team

Three high school girls from Nîmes have made history by being selected for the France U17 flag football team, a non-contact sport gaining traction in France. As they prepare for the European Championships set for September, the focus on agility, speed, and fitness is paramount. Team member Lou Palermo remarked on the sport's dynamic nature, explaining that defenders must remove the flags from runners to conclude plays. With matches structured in two 20-minute halves and played 5 against 5, the sport is not only about athletic skills but also strategy.

The trio, which includes players like Kenza Fritz, has been training diligently twice a week for a year and initially grappled with joining a mixed-gender sport. Coach Thomas Ethève emphasizes the burgeoning popularity of flag football in France, noting that since its introduction in 1989, the number of clubs has swollen to 400, creating a wealth of opportunities for young athletes. The girls are particularly enthusiastic about representing their country and aim for gold in the upcoming championships in Austria. This milestone underscores both the emergence of flag football in France as well as the growing representation of young women in sports...