Philadelphia’s First Collegiate Flag Football Team Hits Field for Inaugural Season

Holy Family became the first Philadelphia institution to compete in flag football at the varsity level when it welcomed Centenary University and Neumann University to Tiger Field on Monday, March 17.

It marked the beginning of the second season of the sport in the Atlantic East Conference, which welcomed HFU as an affiliate member last summer.

Dr. Anne Prisco, president of Holy Family University said, “Women’s flag football at HFU represents a significant milestone in our commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for our students. This new sport not only enhances the diversity of our athletic programs but also strengthens our connection to the surrounding community. It fosters inclusivity and provides a platform for young women to excel both on and off the field. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our students and the broader community.”

As the first NCAA conference to establish an official Women’s Flag Football last season, the Atlantic East Conference set a precedent for continued expansion and recognition of the sport at the collegiate level. The establishment of the league was made possible through a generous grant from the NFL and RCX Sports, the official operator of NFL FLAG, further solidifying the commitment to expanding opportunities for women in sports.

“We congratulate the Atlantic East on making history as the first NCAA conference to introduce women’s flag football as an official varsity sport,” said Julie Hirshey, Vice President of Community Relations, Philadelphia Eagles. “This is truly a milestone moment, not just for college athletics but for women around the world. Opportunities like this foster a more inclusive experience on the field of play and empower young female athletes of all ages and backgrounds to pursue their athletic dreams at the collegiate level.”

Holy Family is immediately eligible for all women’s flag football conference recognition, with the top four teams in the regular season standings set to compete for the Atlantic East Conference Championship in April of 2025.

The season officially kicked off with The Atlantic East’s Women’s Flag Football Media Day on Monday, March 3rd at Lincoln Financial Field (Hyundai Club), hosted by the Philadelphia Eagles.

During the event, players, coaches, and administrative personnel participated in press conferences and media sessions. Eagles mascot Swoop was in attendance and a designated football made specifically for women’s flag football by Wilson was introduced.