Women's flag football is growing - and HBCUs are driving the growth

HBCUs are expanding women’s flag football programs, broadening access for Black and brown women and advancing the sport’s collegiate footprint. The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) piloted women’s flag football and, in spring 2025, launched teams at Bluefield State, Bowie State, Claflin, Fayetteville State, Johnson C. Smith, Virginia Union, and Winston-Salem State. Women’s flag football was designated an NCAA emerging sport in January, positioning it for future championship status. Winston-Salem State won back-to-back CIAA titles after seven teams competed April 10–11 at Johnson C. Smith University. Alabama State became the first NCAA Division I HBCU to add the sport in 2024; Wilberforce and Edward Waters plan programs in 2026–27. HBCU Gameday projects up to 60 sponsors by spring 2026, supporting Olympic pathways in 2028.