The popularity of flag football nationwide has exploded in recent years, with 25 states having officially sanctioned the sport and it being included in the 2028 Olympic Games.

The NCAA has even begun to explore making flag football a permanent part of its athletic options in the near future, which will create opportunities for young girls to play at the collegiate level.

And when it comes to flag football locally, the area features plenty of high-caliber talent, and Baldwin County’s Shiyla Kirkland is one of the many names to know.

During a 39-13 win over Robertsdale last Tuesday, Kirkland racked up over 130 all-purpose yards to go along with four offensive touchdowns, and she also intercepted three passes and returned one of them for another score.

As a result, her efforts earned her Gulf Coast Media’s latest Athlete of the Week honor after public voting concluded Tuesday evening.

Kirkland and the Lady Tigers (8-5, 4-2) hosted Hueytown in the opening round of the AHSAA’s Flag Football Playoffs on Tuesday. They fell in a hard-fought 27-20 contest.

Our other nominees for the week include Foley running back Bryson Garcia, Robertsdale swimmer Farrah Green and Spanish Fort middle Natalie Maxwell.

Be sure to check back here Monday at noon to cast your vote in GCM’s next Athlete of the Week ballot!

And if you would like to nominate an athlete for this weekly polling, email parker@gulfcoastmedia.com or message our social media pages (@GCMSportsAL) with information on their accomplishments, applicable personal info (grade, position, etc.) and a photo(s).

With that being said, GCM is also always happy to share any other local sports content from Baldwin County. To any coach, parent or athlete, feel free to send over any written work, photos or videos through the same mediums.