A Historic Inaugural Signing Class
UT Arlington Women's Flag Football is set to welcome its first-ever signing class in 2026, a development that underscores the rapid ascent of the sport at the collegiate level. The announcement reflects a broader push to institutionalize flag football for women and to provide a clear pathway from high school and international competition to the university stage.
The four new signees bring diverse experiences and achievements that highlight the global nature of the game. Each athlete has already distinguished herself on the field, earning recognition that spans continents and collegiate circuits.
Tomoyo Yagi, a wide receiver and defensive back from Tokyo, Japan, arrives after a standout tenure at Kansas Wesleyan University. Her championship pedigree includes a 2023 Asia Oceania Continental Championship title and top‑three finishes at the 2024 and 2025 World Championships, positioning her as a veteran presence for the Mavericks.
Savannah Jolman, a versatile center/linebacker from Crestview, Florida, adds depth after competing for Kansas Wesleyan University and Webber International University. She was part of a KWU squad that posted a 14‑5 record in 2026, bringing both experience and a winning mentality to Arlington.
Ariana Manning, a running back/defensive back from Phoenix, Arizona, comes from St. Mary’s High School, where she recorded 44 solo tackles and averaged 3.6 flag pulls per game during her senior season. Her aggressive style and tackling ability are expected to bolster the team's defensive schemes.
Tatiana Colon, a wide receiver/linebacker from Chula Vista, California, earned an IFAF Gold Medal with Puerto Rico and led Bonita Vista to a No. 1 seed in the 2023 Division I playoffs. Her dual‑role skill set and prior international success make her a key addition to the roster.
The signing class also includes Amelie Prosser‑Shaw and Tessa Davis, whose presence marks a historic milestone for women's flag football on the global stage. Their inclusion reflects the program's commitment to diversifying talent pools and fostering international collaboration.
Program leaders view this inaugural class as more than a recruitment milestone; they see it as a catalyst for sustained growth. By attracting athletes from varied geographic and competitive backgrounds, UT Arlington aims to set a benchmark for other institutions exploring women's flag football.