Last fall my son Harrison played football for the Oconee County Parks and Recreation Department. When he went to get his gear for the season, my daughter Hayden said, "Mom, I want to play!"

At that time, all slots were filled. But sure enough when registration opened for this coming fall's programs, she again pleaded,"Mom, I want to play!"

So I picked up the phone and contacted Trevor Ross at the Parks and Recreation Department, who was both supportive and professional.  Trevor suggested that he first evaluate Hayden to see if she could hold up under the physical exertion of the sport and then, if she still was interested in playing, he would place her with a coach that would weave her into a team with skill.

I spoke with my daughter and we spent about an hour with Trevor last week. He employed the help of two other staff members and recruited another child to help with the evaluation. It was a wonderful experience because he was very accommodating to an eight-year-old girl with a dream. 

I have a friend who inspired me to pursue this sport for my daughter. When I met this Marine/businessman/entrepreneur for the first time, he was on the football field coaching his daughter's second season.

Would you allow your daughter to play football? If the coach deemed that she was physically capable of keeping up, would you cheer her on? Please share your thoughts.     

For a timeline of "A History of Girls Playing Tackle Football," visit click here.