ROCKFORD, Ill. — Rockford University proudly announces the initiation of a women's flag football program, aligning with the recent inclusion of men's and women's flag football in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games by the International Olympic Committee.

Both the NAIA and NJCAA have officially recognized women's flag football as a competitive women's sport, and the NCAA is currently considering the proposition. Women's flag football has experienced significant growth, particularly at the high school level, fostering inclusivity and unity among young women from diverse backgrounds and skill sets.
 
"Since our founding in 1847 as Rockford Female Seminary, Rockford University has been at the forefront of advancing educational opportunities for women," Rockford University President Patricia Lynott stated. "Now we can build upon that tradition with the introduction of women's flag football."
 
"We want to get in at the ground floor, and we are thrilled to be the first college in the state of Illinois who has a competitive women's flag football program," Director of Athletics, Jason Mulligan said. "The response has been met with overwhelming approval, and Rockford University will become a leader with its flagship program."
 
Additional Information:
 
On February 4^th, the IHSA announced the approval of girls' flag football as an official IHSA sport. The Rockford area has already begun to see a lot of growth in the sport, with seven schools participating in 2023.
 
Since 2021, the Chicago Bears have served as the organizing body and hosted the 2022 and 2023 state championships at Halas Hall. The league began with 22 teams in its inaugural season and has now expanded to 109 teams.
 
As of now, the program will be built around a 7 vs. 7 format.
 
Stay tuned for further updates as plans unfold.