Jacksonville Jaguars host girls flag preseason tournament

For the second time in a week the Jacksonville Jaguars opened their facilities for preps football players to compete.

On Friday they hosted a pre-season girls flag football tournament at TIAA Bank Fieldfor Duval and surrounding county schools after hosting a quarterback football camp last weekend.

The tournament featured a handful of quarterbacks who competed at the camp, including two-time MVP Dakota Hills of Clay.

The event was broken into two flights with multiple area teams competing at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Jaguars players attended the event, spoke with the schools and took photos with different flag players.

“It’s just history in the making, man,” defensive end Jordan Smith said during the event. “When I was their age, if I could say that I saw girls playing flag football at a competitive level, I’d be lying. It’s really competitive. They’re learning real football plays and executing the plays. Having a scheme and having a plan. It’s just fun to watch.”

The action wasn’t in short supply. There were interceptions, misdirection plays, spin moves, fall-away catches, big throws and everything else you’d see at a football game.

A bonus for the teams was playing on the grass and turf that NFL players compete on everyday during the season.

When Jaguars defensive end Josh Allen thought back to one of his most cherished football memories it came playing in an NFL stadium as a high schooler.

“I know when I was younger I would’ve loved to play at MetLife Stadium growing up,” Allen said. “I know I played my state championship game there and that was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had. Living in that moment there, I have great memories just from playing in there.

“Now for these girls, being able to play in their home Florida state stadium. Just to have fun, score touchdowns, get sacks, get the flags. I feel like it’s going to be a memorable moment for these young ladies and hopefully they continue to grow and this sport continues to grow.”