The Overton County School Board is considering adding a Livingston Academy girls flag football team this spring.
Several schools across the Upper Cumberland, including Stone Memorial High School and Upperman High School, have already added the sport. Director of Schools Kim Dillon said the sport is gaining interest.
“Apparently, it’s become a big thing, and they are getting scholarships,” Dillon said. “So we have enough people who want to play, we have someone who is willing to coach, we just needed the approval. TSSAA has already recognized it, and they are waiting for us to get board approval to add the sport.”
Dillon said the budget will play a factor in whether the sport could be added this Spring. School Board Member William Abston said he has concerns about funding the sport.
“Where is this gonna put our budget, cause I know this is gonna be a thing that we didn’t budget for, which it’s a good thing, but where is it gonna put us with the budget?” Abston said. “I just wanted to make sure on there, cause I know last year we had a big shortfall, and this year we want to be careful adding things on there.”
Dillon said the school board would likely give a $3,000 stipend to the head coach and a $1,500 stipend to an assistant. School Board Member Mike Hayes said the board would also have to consider the use of facilities.
“We can do this further down the line, but as they start competing, I’m sure they will be using the football field,” Hayes said. “Obviously, the boys will be out of the locker room, so we just need to figure out as far as where their locker room is gonna be.”
School Board Chairman Mitch Stonecipher said one would think this would help with Title IX numbers and the number of female athletes.
The board approved a resolution to recognize the Livingston Academy girls’ flag football team. Passing the resolution does not solidify that the school district will add the sport.
