Triton College Launches Women’s Flag Football Program for 2026

Women’s sports are changing fast these days. One of the most exciting shifts is the rise of women’s flag football.

In just a few years, the sport’s popularity has exploded. At least 65 colleges now sponsor women’s flag football at the club or varsity level.

Triton College in River Grove just joined the movement. They’ve announced women’s flag football as the latest addition to their athletic program.

It’s a smart move for Triton, and honestly, a welcome boost for the sport’s momentum nationwide.

The Emergence of Women’s Flag Football

Women’s flag football has taken off, in large part because of support from organizations like the NFL. More colleges and high schools keep adding it to their lineups.

This surge really says something about how much people value women’s sports now. Athletes are getting more chances to shine.

Local High Schools Leading the Way

Locally, high schools like Oak Park and River Forest, Fenwick, and Lyons Township made their debut in the IHSA flag football league last fall. They’re setting the pace for others, showing just how fun and popular the sport can be at the high school level.

Triton College’s Strategic Move

Triton College decided to add women’s flag football to help enrollment and grow their programs. Garrick Abezetian, the associate VP for athletics, called it an exciting chance to boost the sport and offer more to students and the community.

Community and Institutional Support

Triton College President Mary-Rita Moore said this move supports the community’s passion for Trojan athletics. She also pointed out that it fits with the college’s mission to make a difference for students and the wider community.

National and International Recognition

Women’s flag football isn’t just growing locally. It’s set to debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, with both men’s and women’s teams competing.

That’s a huge step for the sport. Olympic recognition really puts it on the world map.

Support from Major Organizations

The NJCAA and NFL have helped open doors for female student-athletes. Troy Vincent, NFL executive VP of football operations, said making NFL FLAG a varsity sport in junior colleges proves football’s for everyone.

Andrew Givens, executive director of the NJCAA Foundation, also talked up how women’s flag football promotes equality and growth at schools.

RCX Sports and Youth Opportunities

RCX Sports works to give more kids a shot at playing sports. CEO and NFL FLAG executive director Izell Reese leads the charge, teaming up with big sports leagues to create accessible leagues for all.

Reese pointed out that NJCAA women’s flag football lets young women compete and get a solid education for the future.

Expanding Athletic Programs

Triton College competes in NCJAA Region Four. They’ve already got teams in baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling.

Adding women’s flag football gives student-athletes another way to get involved and grow.

Achievements and Recognition

Triton College has built a strong tradition in athletics. Several student-athletes have earned All-American honors in track and field.

Riverside-Brookfield alum Ava Connerty won the 100-meter hurdles at the NJCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Championships. She became the first Triton athlete to win an individual national women’s track title.