Opening Day at Grand Park
The 2026 NFL Flag Football Championships opened Thursday at Grand Park in Westfield, Indiana, drawing more than 350 boys and girls teams from across the globe. This marks the first year the tournament is being held in the Indianapolis region and in an NFL club market, underscoring the area’s growing role in professional sports.
Colts owner Kalen Jackson greeted the crowds, emphasizing the region’s ability to host world‑class events and expressing pride in bringing the championship to the heart of the Midwest. The tournament features a full collection of Super Bowl rings, the Vince Lombardi Trophy, local food, a player HQ, and a family lounge, creating a festival atmosphere for participants and spectators alike.
Indianapolis‑based artist Shane Young, known professionally as FITZ, was selected by the NFL to create the tournament’s official artwork; his flag‑football‑inspired pieces debuted on site, adding a cultural dimension to the championship.
First‑time competitors Mylee Patrick and Alexis Montoya, both members of the KC Heat, said the experience of playing on such a stage was exhilarating, underscoring the tournament’s growing appeal among young athletes.
Broadcast partners Disney and ESPN will air the championship games starting Friday, extending the event’s reach to millions of viewers across the Disney and ESPN platforms.