A striking shift is underway in American flag football, as both the women's and men's national teams are shedding years in favor of younger talent. The average age of the women's roster now sits at 26, nearly two years younger than three seasons ago, while the men's side has slipped from 29.4 to 28.6.
Rising Talent
At the forefront of this transformation is 17‑year‑old quarterback Akemi Higa, a Hawaii‑born prodigy who now trains in Las Vegas. She has already amassed 22,476 passing yards and 371 touchdowns in high school, and she joins a half‑dozen players under 21 on the women's squad. Her twin sister Akiko has been a constant partner in their rise since the family moved to Las Vegas in 2022.
The men's team is experiencing a similar infusion of youth. Players such as 21‑year‑old Jorge Cascudo Jr. and Justin McMullen are battling for spots on the roster that will travel to the world championships in Germany. Veteran quarterback Darrell “Housh” Doucette III, at 36, remains the oldest member of the squad, while longtime coach Jorge Cascudo Sr. continues to guide the program.
The surge is not limited to the national teams. More than 68,800 girls played high school flag football in 2024, a 60% increase over the previous year, and the sport is on track to receive NCAA championship status. The growth has attracted high‑profile supporters, including Mark Cuban and Aaron Rodgers, who have partnered with USA Football on philanthropic investments.
The NFL is also championing the women's game, using its platform to broadcast matches and amplify the sport's profile. Upcoming Rivalry Series games will pit the U.S. women's and men's teams against Canada in Los Angeles, serving as a final tune‑up before the international tournament in Germany.