Alabama Community Colleges Boost Women’s Sports with $300,000 Grant

The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) just got a big boost for women’s athletics. A $300,000 award from the 2025 Alabama Education Trust Fund Supplemental Appropriations is coming their way.

State Rep. Chris Blackshear (R-Phenix City) really pushed for this funding. The goal is to help women’s sports grow and evolve within the ACCC.

It’s a landmark move for the state. Not only will existing sports get a lift, but new chances for female athletes are on the table—especially with flag football gaining serious momentum.

Enhancing Women’s Sports in Alabama Community Colleges

The Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) has always been a big deal for athletics in Alabama. Their programs cover basketball, softball, soccer, cross country, golf, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.

Now they’re adding flag football to the mix starting in September. It’s a pretty exciting step for women athletes at the community college level.

State Representative Chris Blackshear’s Vision

Chris Blackshear played a key role in securing that $300,000. He’s not just focused on keeping current programs strong—he wants to bring in new opportunities like flag football too.

*The global emergence of flag football is undeniable,* Blackshear said. He pointed to its spot in the Olympics and the NFL Pro Bowl.

Blackshear’s excitement is contagious, especially since the sport’s already making waves in his hometown of Phenix City.

The Rapid Growth of Women’s Flag Football

Flag football’s popularity is exploding, especially for women. Izell Reese, a Dothan native and Executive Director of NFL Flag, called it *the fastest growing sport in the United States and arguably ever.*

This surge is opening new doors for female athletes who didn’t have many options after high school.

Opportunities at the Community College Level

Bringing flag football to community colleges is a game-changer. Now, women can keep playing after high school, thanks to the ACCC’s new push.

*It’s phenomenal to now hear of the opportunities that are going to come at the community college level,* Reese said. There’s a sense that this could really change things for a lot of young athletes.

Impact on Workforce Development and Athletic Excellence

Alabama’s community colleges aren’t just about books and lectures. They play a huge role in workforce development and in building top-notch athletic programs.

*While Alabama’s community colleges provide one of the state’s most effective workforce development pipelines, they are also proudly home to some of our top athletic programs,* Blackshear said. That balance is something special in Alabama.

The Role of the Alabama Education Trust Fund

This $300,000 from the Alabama Education Trust Fund shows the state is serious about women’s sports. The money will help launch new programs and improve the ones already in place.

Blackshear and the state legislature made sure this appropriation was part of the latest budget package.

Looking Forward: The Future of Women’s Sports in Alabama

Women’s sports in Alabama seem to be heading in a good direction, especially with flag football joining the ACCC lineup. *Providing additional opportunities in this great conference is something we hold in high esteem,* said ACCC Commissioner Dean Myrick.

The ACCC looks ready to keep growing, and this funding should help spark even more progress.

Community and Statewide Support

Community leaders and state officials have shown overwhelming support. It’s honestly kind of inspiring to see everyone rally together like this.