Pittsburgh Review

The NFL has joined forces with the Maxwell Football Club to introduce a Girls National Flag Football Player of the Year award, highlighting a finalist from each NFL market. Representing the Steelers is Shayln Brown, a junior from Moon Area Tigers.

Brown was recognized by the Steelers during their Christmas Day game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Since her freshman year, she has been the starting quarterback for Moon and occasionally played as a wide receiver. In her sophomore season, Brown led Moon to its first championship title. The team is currently on a 27-game winning streak and has won 33 out of 36 games in the Steelers High School Girls Flag Spring season.

"The Pittsburgh Steelers are committed to growing the game of football for boys and girls across Western Pennsylvania," stated Joe Lofton, the Steelers football development manager. He added that Brown "quarterbacked the Moon Tigers to back-to-back championships in the Steelers Girls Flag Spring season."

Lofton further praised Brown: "Shay, who was nominated by her coaches and teammates, demonstrates excellence on and off the football field, leadership amongst her teammates and commitment to her Moon Township community." Additionally, Brown volunteers in her community to promote flag football among youth.

The Steelers have played a significant role in expanding girls' flag football in Western Pennsylvania. Alongside the Philadelphia Eagles, they supported efforts for its recognition as a high school sport by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). The PIAA Board of Directors approved it as a state-sanctioned sport for the 2025-26 school year after confirming there were over 100 teams playing at high schools statewide.

Starting with just six teams initially, participation grew significantly with sponsorships from Nike and equipment donations. Presently, there are 36 teams in Pittsburgh and over 100 throughout Pennsylvania. The annual Girls Flag Football Jamboree, leagues, championships, and uniform unveilings at Acrisure Stadium have helped increase interest.

The Player of the Year award will be presented annually based on criteria including on-field performance, academic achievement, and community service. This year's presentation will occur at the 88th Maxwell Awards on March 14, 2025, at Atlanta's College Football Hall of Fame.