Flag Football Surges in Popularity, Lands in Colleges with NFL Support
ROSEVILLE, Minn. – Flag football is experiencing a notable surge in popularity, notably among women and girls, fueled by its accessibility and the NFL’s strong support. This growth is extending to the college level, with schools like Augustana University launching club teams.
Augustana University Launches Women’s Flag Football Club with Overwhelming Interest
At Augustana University in sioux Falls, South dakota, a call for players to form a women’s flag football club team was met with enthusiasm. Kiley Coyne, an assistant director of admission and women’s tackle football player, volunteered to coach, initially hoping for just 10 players. The team now boasts 23 members.
NFL’s Investment and Olympic Inclusion Boost Flag Football’s Growth
The NFL has been a major proponent of flag football, recognizing its accessibility and appeal. Stephanie Kwok, the league’s vice president of flag football, emphasized the sport’s value in providing more athletic opportunities for girls. Moreover, flag football’s inclusion in the 2028 Summer olympics in Los Angeles has further fueled its growth trajectory and popularity across all levels.
Minnesota Vikings Support New College League
Augustana is one of seven NCAA schools participating in a new flag football league this spring. The league received crucial support from the Minnesota Vikings, including $140,000 in funding and logistical assistance. Five institutions in Minnesota and one in Wisconsin are participating, with a schedule of games culminating in a championship tournament.
From Volleyball to Quarterback: Students Embrace New Athletic Opportunities
Brooklyn Sturm, a former high school volleyball, basketball, and softball player at Augustana, initially didn’t plan on playing sports in college. however, the prospect to play flag football proved too tempting.She now plays quarterback on the team, wich recently competed in the inaugural round of games at Northwestern University in Roseville, Minnesota. “If we had this opportunity in high school, I probably would’ve taken it,” Sturm said.
High School Participation on the Rise
Flag football is gaining traction at the high school level as well. According to the National Federation of High Schools, 14 states have sanctioned girls’ flag football, with nearly 43,000 players nationwide in the 2023-24 school year. This figure does not include participation in club programs pushing the actual figures even higher.
Women’s Flag Football Surges in Popularity Across the Nation
Fueled by inclusivity and a desire for team sports, women’s flag football is experiencing a surge in popularity across the United States. From high school clubs to collegiate varsity programs, the sport is attracting a diverse range of participants, many of whom are new to organized athletics.
Explosive Growth at all Levels
Approximately half a million girls between the ages of 6 and 17 are participating in organized flag football. In Minnesota, a pilot program that began with four high school clubs has expanded to include 51 schools this year. At the collegiate level, more than 100 institutions within the NCAA, NAIA, and junior college systems now offer women’s flag football as either a varsity or club sport, according to the NFL. The NAIA sanctioned competition in 2021, leading the way for other organizations. Sixteen schools currently boast NCAA varsity programs, and at least 20 more teams are anticipated to launch in 2026. The NCAA has recommended women’s flag football for emerging sport status.
Beyond the Game: Inclusivity and Opportunity
One of the most notable aspects of this growth is the participation of women who have never previously been involved in organized team sports. Melissa Lee, an associate athletic director at Augsburg University in Minneapolis and coach of the school’s team, emphasizes that the sport provides an opportunity for women to experience the camaraderie and school spirit that comes with being part of a team.
“It’s for those women who’ve never worn a uniform, who’ve never been part of the school spirit of being part of a team,” Lee said. She recruited 24 women at Augsburg University, a school with around 2,400 undergraduates, many of whom only had experience playing powderpuff football during homecoming.
Adapting and learning: The Evolution of the Game
Even coaches with experience in men’s tackle football are finding a learning curve as they transition to leading women’s flag football teams. The rules of flag football differ significantly from tackle football, with variations existing across different leagues and levels. Typically, fields are half the size, and play is 5-on-5. Offenses have four downs to reach midfield and another four to score. Rather of punting, teams verbally declare possessions, similar to an intentional walk in baseball. The defense can rush the passer from 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage, and running plays are prohibited inside the defense’s 5-yard line. Following a touchdown,the scoring team can choose a 1-point conversion from the 5-yard line or a 2-point conversion from the 10-yard line.
Looking Ahead: Growth and Varsity Status
Future plans include transitioning to 7-on-7 play to increase playing time for athletes. With growing interest, leagues anticipate expansion. The ultimate goal is to achieve varsity status for more teams, contingent upon securing sustainable funding.
NFL Owners Approve Hybrid Resolution for Playoff Game Neutral Site Contingency
The NFL will implement a hybrid resolution for determining neutral site locations for playoff games impacted by unforeseen circumstances. The decision was made by NFL owners to ensure fairness and competitive balance shoudl a team be unable to host a playoff game due to stadium unavailability or other extraordinary issues.
Neutral Site Selection Process Refined
Under the approved resolution, the NFL retains the adaptability to designate neutral sites for playoff contests when necessary. specific details of the refined selection process have not yet been released, but are expected to address various logistical and competitive factors.
Contingency Planning Takes Center Stage
this move underscores the league’s commitment to proactive contingency planning. By establishing a framework for neutral site games,the NFL seeks to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain integrity throughout the playoffs.
More Details to Come on Implementation
Further details regarding the criteria for triggering the neutral site contingency, site selection protocols, and fan access are anticipated in the coming weeks. The NFL aims to provide clarity for teams, players, and fans alike as the playoffs approach.
Here are two PAA (Possibly Answerable Area) related questions for the “Flag Football Surges in Popularity” article, each on a new line:
Flag Football Surges in Popularity: Your Burning questions Answered
Flag football is exploding in popularity! This article dives into the exciting rise of the sport, especially for women and girls, and its growing presence in colleges.Let’s address some key questions.
Q&A: Flag Football Frenzy
Q: Why is Flag Football so popular?
A: Accessibility and inclusivity are key! Flag football is easier to learn and play than tackle football, making it attractive to a wider range of athletes. The NFL’s backing and the sport’s Olympic inclusion have also boosted its profile.
Q: How many players are on a flag football team?
A: Flag football is typically played 5-on-5, but can also be played 7-on-7.
Q: What are the main differences between flag and tackle football?
A: Flag football fields are smaller, and rather of tackling, players pull flags to stop the play. There are four downs to reach midfield, and then four to score. Running plays are restricted inside the defence’s 5-yard line. no punting, but a verbal declaration of possession. The defense can rush the passer from 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage. After a touchdown, teams can choose a one-point conversion from the 5-yard line or a two-point conversion from the 10-yard line.
Q: Where is Flag Football growing the fastest?
A: Women’s flag football is experiencing explosive growth, especially at the high school and college levels. The NAIA sanctioned competition in 2021 leading the way for other organizations. Sixteen schools currently boast NCAA varsity programs, and at least 20 more teams are anticipated to launch in 2026.The NCAA has recommended women’s flag football for emerging sport status.
Q: What role does the NFL play in this growth?
A: The NFL is a major supporter, providing funding, resources, and promoting the sport as a way to increase athletic opportunities for girls and women. They are investing in leagues and providing support to help with the sport’s overall growth. The minnesota Vikings provided $140,000 in funding to a new college league.
Q: Where can I find out more?
A: Search for flag football leagues and programs near you! Websites like the NFL Flag website, and local sports organizations can provide more facts.
Flag football is more than just a game; it’s a growing movement. the sport provides opportunities for fun, teamwork, and athletic achievement – and as more young women and girls embrace the sport, the future of flag football looks shining!
NFL Playoff Neutral Site Contingency: Explained
The NFL has approved a hybrid resolution for determining neutral site locations for playoff games impacted by unforeseen circumstances. Let’s break down the key points.
Q&A: Playoff Game Changes
Q: Why did the NFL make this change?
A: To ensure fairness and competitive balance during the playoffs if a team cannot host a game due to stadium unavailability or other unexpected issues.
Q: What is a “hybrid resolution?”
A: It means the NFL has a plan to determine neutral site locations for playoff games if necessary, but the specifics of how sites will be chosen haven’t been fully released. More details are expected soon.
Q: Where will these playoff games be held?
A: This will depend on the specific circumstances,but neutral sites will be selected. The league aims to provide clarity on these protocols before the playoffs.
Q: When will we know more about the process?
A: The NFL plans to announce details in the coming weeks, including the criteria, site selection methods, and fan access procedures.
The NFL is taking steps to protect the integrity of the playoffs. Stay tuned for more details!
