Gridiron Goddesses: Inside Women’s Flag Football’s Next Wave
Aishah Smith, a dual-sport standout in flag football and basketball at Guilford High, emerged as the Athlete of the Year after capturing over 100,000 votes in a fan-driven poll. She earned her first Athlete of the Week honor by throwing three touchdown passes in a 34-0 flag football rout, then led her team to a state runner-up finish and racked up additional weekly honors. Smith’s season unbeaten streak ended in the IHSA girls flag football final, but her stellar play still resonated with voters. Across two weeks of final polling, Smith commanded nearly half of the 209,896 votes cast. Her blend of leadership on the field and community support propelled her to the top spot
MEAC Girls on the Gridiron Flag Football Clinic Returns for Third Year at 2025 MEAC Football Media Day
Morgan State University’s Hughes Stadium will again host a free “Girls on the Gridiron” flag football clinic on July 20, inviting women 12 and up to sharpen their skills. MEAC student-athletes will lead drills on passing, catching and strategic play, aiming to boost confidence and foster a sense of community. Commissioner Sonja Stills praised the clinic’s role in expanding female representation in football, while NFL executive Troy Vincent, Sr. highlighted its potential as a talent pipeline. Last year’s strong turnout in Norfolk demonstrated the program’s growing reach across the conference. Organizers anticipate even higher interest this summer, backed by ongoing NFL collaboration.
Flag or tackle football – It’s good to have a choice
Jim Tal Evans explores the rising choice between flag and tackle football for youth players, noting flag’s surge thanks to reduced injury risk and emphasis on speed, agility and strategy. He argues that flag football offers a welcoming entry point for all ages and genders, while tackle football builds physical toughness, technical skills and leadership through contact. Escondido Charter coach Jon Goodman suggests young athletes start with flag before transitioning to tackle in middle school, balancing safety with readiness. Evans underscores that quality coaching—focused on sportsmanship and personal growth—is the key factor regardless of the chosen format. Ultimately, both versions strengthen teamwork and resilience, making either path a win for aspiring players.
Defiance College to start women’s flag football, women’s wrestling programs
Defiance College will launch varsity women’s flag football and women’s wrestling in the 2026-27 academic year, marking its fourth and fifth new sports in 14 months. The flag football squad, set for spring competition on an 80×40-yard field, will be led by quarterback-turned-coach Cole Recker, a recent graduate with campus roots. The college joins the NAIA’s emerging women’s flag football movement, which has held annual invitationals since 2021 on the road to full championship status. Wrestling, already an NAIA championship sport, will expand local opportunities alongside conference peers Indiana Tech and Lourdes. Athletic Director Tiffani Selhorst says both additions align with Defiance’s vision to grow women’s athletics and community engagement.
FIHS Jenkins home; but heads to China soon
Former Fleming Island star London Jenkins has earned a spot on the USA National Women’s flag football team and will compete at the World Games in Chengdu and the IFAF Americas Championship in Panama this fall. Jenkins, a national junior college champion and two-time Florida high school Final Four finalist, returned home to host Jaguars PREP Girls camps and share skills with ages six to 16. She credits dedicated coaches and family support for fueling her rapid rise from high school standout to international competitor. As the team’s prep camp ambassador, Jenkins emphasized hard work and community connection. Her journey highlights flag football’s expanding pathways to elite global competition.
