Maddie Melton to Coach ETBU’s First Women’s Flag Football Team

Big news for women’s sports: East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) just announced women’s flag football as its 24th athletic program. Maddie Melton, a recent ETBU grad with a solid background in college sports, will lead this new team.

Melton didn’t know much about flag football at first, but her drive to coach and encouragement from mentors pushed her into this new role. ETBU’s move shines a light on how popular women’s flag football is becoming.

It also shows that ETBU really wants to open more doors for female student-athletes. They’re not just talking the talk—they’re walking it.

The Rise of Women’s Flag Football at ETBU

Flag football’s catching on fast across the country. Events like the NFL High School Girls Showcase—and its upcoming Olympic debut in Los Angeles—are helping it grow.

Ryan Erwin, ETBU’s Athletic Director, saw a chance to add something exciting to their lineup. With women’s flag football booming, ETBU jumped in to stay ahead of the curve.

ETBU’s Commitment to Women’s Sports

ETBU has always backed women’s sports, especially in softball and volleyball. Adding women’s flag football marks the ninth new sport at ETBU in just eight years—and the fourth for women.

This push matches their mission: more opportunities for female athletes and supporting new NCAA-level sports. They’re not afraid to try something new.

Maddie Melton: From Player to Coach

Maddie Melton’s path to head coach of ETBU’s first women’s flag football team says a lot about her grit and flexibility. She didn’t grow up with flag football, but her background in sports performance and success in other sports made her stand out.

After digging into the sport and getting a nudge from her former softball coach, Janae Shirley, Melton decided to take on the challenge of building a program from the ground up.

Overcoming Doubts and Embracing the Challenge

At just 22, Melton wondered if she was ready to lead a college team. Still, support from Shirley, Erwin, and ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn helped her find her footing.

Her energy and commitment have already started to raise the profile of women’s flag football in East Texas. It’s catching on, and she’s right at the heart of it.

Promoting Flag Football in East Texas

Since stepping into her new role, Melton’s been busy spreading the word about flag football. She connects with high school students, shares her excitement, and encourages young athletes to give the sport a shot.

She works with groups like 5 v 5 Sports and puts on events to get more girls—both high school and college—interested in flag football. It’s hands-on, and it’s making a difference.

Building a Legacy at ETBU

Melton’s new job isn’t just a personal win. It’s a big deal for ETBU too.

The university’s one of the first in Texas to announce a women’s flag football program, which says a lot about their willingness to lead. Melton’s recent experience as a player gives her a fresh take on recruiting and the real-life challenges student-athletes face.

ETBU’s History of Success in Women’s Sports

ETBU’s got a strong track record in women’s sports, especially softball and volleyball. In 2024, their softball team won the Women’s College World Series at home, and in 2025, they made it to the Super Regionals.

The volleyball team also shined, earning a No. 1 Division III ranking and making it to the playoff quarterfinals. That kind of success sets the stage for women’s flag football to hit the ground running.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Flag Football at ETBU

ETBU is starting a new chapter with women’s flag football. The future feels wide open and honestly, pretty exciting.

Melton leads the way, bringing her own brand of energy and vision. The team could really shake things up in collegiate sports.