Women's Flag Football | 11/17/2025 9:00:00 AM
PITTSFORD, NY — Beginning in 2026-27, St. John Fisher University will add women's flag football to its intercollegiate athletic offerings, bringing the total number of varsity athletic teams to 28.
Flag football has been gaining popularity in high schools across the United States and is an emerging sport at the collegiate level. In New York state, there are more than 4,000 flag student-athletes with more than 30 teams competing in Section V. The sport will also make its debut in the Summer 2028 Olympics. Fisher will join five other Empire 8 Conference schools, including SUNY Brockport, SUNY Geneseo, Hartwick College, Elmira College, and Russell Sage College.
This addition is the newest in Fisher's athletic roster portfolio, and in the last several years, the University has also added men's volleyball and men's wrestling, and men's and women's ice hockey, whose inaugural seasons are currently underway, bringing the student-athlete population to more than 800 in total. Flag football is anticipated to add 20-25 student-athletes to Fisher's vibrant athletics program.
"The addition of flag football to Fisher Athletics reflects our commitment to expanding opportunities for student-athletes while strengthening the culture that defines our campus community," said Jose Perales, vice president for enrollment management. "Fisher Athletics has long been a source of pride and success, and this new program builds on that tradition by engaging students in ways that extend beyond competition. Flag football will not only enhance the student-athlete experience, but it will also enrich campus life, foster school spirit, and create new connections that benefit the entire Fisher community."
Fisher's athletics department is now in the recruiting phase, and incoming flag football student-athletes will enter the University in the fall 2026 semester. The University is also in the search process for a head coach and finalizing training staff resources as well as facility needs.
"We are thrilled to welcome women's flag football to St. John Fisher, a milestone that not only expands opportunities for female athletes but also shines a brighter spotlight on their talent, leadership, and competitive spirit," said Jennifer Granger, director of athletics and recreation at Fisher. "This program enhances our visibility, strengthens our athletic community, and reflects our ongoing commitment to equity and opportunity in sports."
The average roster size is around 25 players that will play 7-on-7. A contest will consist of four 12-minute quarters on a field that is 80x40 yards. The offense has four downs to cross each 20-yard line for a first down with an option to punt at third down. If unsuccessful, teams surrender possession to their opponent.
Teams score six points for a touchdown and can gain an extra one or two points for a set play from the five- or 10-yard lines. Players will wear tightly fixed flag belts with sockets and two pop flags on either side of their hips.
The NFL has been a strong advocate for the growth of flag football domestically and internationally. The League and NFL Clubs have supported the growth by offering facilities and stadiums to be utilized for competitions and clinics while several NFL Legends and active players have attended and engaged with athletes to grow the sport. Across the country, more than three million youth participate in flag football with over 500,000 female participants. Last year, over 750,000 youth participated in NFL Flag which is operated by RCX Sports. In high school, following the support of the NFL, RCX Sports, and the National Federation of State High School Associations, 15 states have agreed to sanction girls flag football as a varsity sport which is key to develop the game at the collegiate level.
ABOUT RCX SPORTS
RCX Sports is the official youth sports operator for the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, and USTA. As the only multi-sport organization trusted by pro leagues and governing bodies to represent them, RCX Sports delivers officially licensed uniforms, comprehensive resources, and full support, empowering league operators to create the best youth sports experiences in their communities. Committed to making youth sports accessible and inclusive, RCX Sports creates opportunities for all athletes to play and benefit from the transformative power of sports. For more information, visit rcxsports.com.