Empowering Female Athletes: The Rise of Women's Flag Football in College
Mya De Jesus, a senior at Harrison High in New Jersey, discovered flag football through an unexpected opportunity and has since excelled in the sport. She plays as a running back and linebacker, showcasing her skills on both offense and defense. De Jesus is now being recruited for college flag football, with the sport gaining recognition and popularity.
The New York Jets have made a significant investment in women's flag football by partnering with the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) to launch a women's flag football league. The league will feature 15 universities in the Northeast competing in 7-on-7 flag football games from February to April, with a playoff tournament at MetLife Stadium in May. This initiative aims to provide more opportunities for female athletes in the sport.
The ECAC commissioner, Dan Coonan, highlighted the accessibility of flag football as a sport that requires minimal infrastructure and equipment, making it easy for colleges to adopt. The Jets have been instrumental in promoting flag football, creating numerous teams and opportunities for girls to participate in the sport. The collaboration with the ECAC is seen as a strategic move to grow the game and prepare athletes for future opportunities.
Former NFL coach Callie Brownson, who played tackle football for the D.C. Divas, is working with the ECAC and Jets as a flag football advisor. She emphasizes the passion and excitement surrounding flag football and the potential for growth in the sport. The Jets' support has been crucial in expanding flag football programs in high schools and communities, providing more girls with the chance to play and excel in the sport.
The partnership between the Jets and the ECAC is paving the way for the development of women's flag football at the collegiate level. With the launch of the league in 2026, female athletes like Mya De Jesus have the opportunity to showcase their talent and pursue scholarships in flag football. The commitment and dedication of organizations like the Jets are driving the growth of flag football and creating a pathway for aspiring athletes to succeed in the sport.