Russell Sage College Women’s Flag Football Secures Inaugural Sponsor

Russell Sage College (RSC) just announced something big for its athletic department—the launch of a women’s flag football program, kicking off in spring 2026. This will be the first program of its kind in the Capital Region.

They’ve already landed their inaugural sponsor: Greco Construction. That’s a pretty big deal and shows how much interest women’s flag football is getting these days.

Greco Construction is run by Sam Greco Jr., a proud RSC alumnus and Athletics Hall of Famer. He’s set to play a huge part in getting this new team off the ground.

Greco Construction: A Legacy of Support and Excellence

Greco Construction started back in 1977 and has become a leader in construction, handling everything from renovations to new buildings and facility maintenance. Sam Greco Jr. leads the company and has built a solid reputation for reliability and top-notch work.

Greco Jr. went into the RSC Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015, and he’s always felt a strong connection to the college. Supporting RSC’s athletic programs means a lot to him, since his own time as a student-athlete made such a difference in his life.

Sam Greco Jr.: From Athlete to Philanthropist

Sam Greco Jr. started out as a standout basketball player at RSC. He was recognized for his speed, hustle, and record-setting performances—earning rookie MVP honors.

His passion for sports and his alma mater has stuck with him, and now he’s giving back by supporting the women’s flag football program. Greco Jr. says he’s proud of RSC and excited to help launch this new chapter.

The Rise of Women’s Flag Football

Flag football is catching on fast around the world. It’s really picking up steam at both high school and college levels.

In the Capital Region, high schools have jumped in, with 12 teams set to compete in 2025. The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) rolled out a girls’ flag football pilot in 2022, and by 2026, about 200 teams will be playing statewide.

Flag Football’s Olympic Debut

Flag football will make its Olympic debut in 2028. That’s a huge step for the sport and will likely draw even more attention and participants.

RSC’s move to start a women’s flag football team fits right in with this wave of momentum and puts the college out front in the Capital Region.

Russell Sage College’s Expanding Athletic Department

Since 2008, RSC has been growing its athletic department, adding 17 new teams. In 2020 alone, they brought in baseball, eSports, and women’s golf.

The new women’s flag football team brings the total to 22 athletic programs. That shows RSC’s commitment to giving students more ways to get involved in sports and campus life.

Partnership with Greco Construction

The multi-year sponsorship with Greco Construction gives the women’s flag football program a strong foundation. It’ll provide resources and support to help the team get established and thrive.

RSC President Matthew Shaftel pointed out how important alumni support is and how athletics can really shape students’ lives. He highlighted Greco Jr.’s ongoing dedication to the college.

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

With Greco Construction’s backing and lots of enthusiasm from the RSC community, the women’s flag football team looks set for a promising start. Head Coach Denver Divens, who started July 1, said he’s grateful for all the support from the college and the local community.

He’s looking forward to leading the team and helping grow women’s flag football in the Capital Region.

Empowering a New Generation of Athletes

Bringing women’s flag football to RSC isn’t just about adding another sport. It’s a chance to empower a new generation of female athletes.

The program will let students build teamwork and leadership skills, on and off the field. This effort lines up with RSC’s mission to encourage both academic and athletic excellence, and to create an environment where everyone feels supported and included.