New Sport, New Opportunities: Bridgewater College Joins the Flag Football Movement
Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, Bridgewater College is adding women's flag football to its varsity sports lineup.
A Step Forward in Athletic Opportunities
Bridgewater College has long been committed to providing diverse athletic opportunities for its students. This new addition is part of their ongoing efforts to expand choices for student-athletes.
"We are thrilled to offer this new opportunity to our students. It's an exciting time for women's sports, and we believe this will inspire young women in our community and beyond." - David Bushman, College President
Growing Popularity of Women's Flag Football
Flag football is rapidly gaining traction across the country. Currently, there are over 200 women's teams at colleges and universities. Notable Division 1 schools like UVA and Radford have club teams, while Division 3 schools such as Hollins and Virginia Wesleyan already have established teams. Bridgewater College joins Guilford in adding the sport for the 2026-2027 season.
Conference and National Support
The Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) is also taking notice of the sport's growth. More schools are considering adding flag football, which could lead to a conference championship in the future.
"This is a significant step forward for women's sports. We are excited to see the growth and potential of flag football in our conference." - Brad Bankston, ODAC Commissioner
The NFL is playing a crucial role in the sport's expansion, funding women's flag football at the grassroots level. Seventeen states now have high school girls' flag football programs, with the Washington Commanders supporting the sport's growth in the DMV area.
Community and College Enthusiasm
Dan Levy, the director of youth football for the Washington Commanders, is excited about the sport's momentum. He sees Bridgewater College's commitment as a reflection of this growing trend.
"Bridgewater College's decision to add women's flag football is a testament to the sport's growing popularity and the increasing opportunities for young women in athletics." - Dan Levy, Director of Youth Football, Washington Commanders
Curt Kendall, the college's athletics director, shares this enthusiasm. He believes the team can be competitive from the start.
A New Opportunity for Female Athletes
This new sport offers another athletic opportunity for women at Bridgewater College. It's a chance for female high school student-athletes in the region to be part of something new and exciting.
