Cal Poly has made history by becoming the first university on the West Coast to add a Division I women's flag football team, a move that underscores the school's commitment to expanding opportunities for female athletes. The announcement also introduced Rod Sherman as the program's head coach, tasking him with shaping a new competitive landscape.
A Coach With a Proven Track Record
Rod Sherman brings fifteen years of coaching experience, including a successful stint as head coach at Valor Christian High School. His background is rooted in developing elite preparation and fostering a competitive spirit, qualities he now intends to embed in the university's inaugural squad.
Core Values Shaping the Program
The program's foundation rests on three pillars — love, accountability and competition — guiding every interaction from practice to game day. Sherman frequently draws on examples of successful athletes to illustrate how these values translate into performance on the field.
A Historic Inaugural Season
The team is scheduled to begin play in spring 2027, with ambitions to contend for the sport's first national championship in 2028. This timeline reflects both optimism and a strategic roadmap for building a competitive roster from the ground up.
Leadership From Within
Sydney Bertoni, founder of the Cal Poly Flag Football Club and a driving force behind the program's creation, will join the roster as a student‑athlete leader. Her experience in starting both high school and club teams equips her to inspire teammates and model the program's cultural ethos.
Looking Ahead to 2027 and Beyond
Beyond immediate competition, the initiative aims to create a transformational experience for student‑athletes, potentially opening pathways to national team selection and Olympic participation. By setting a benchmark for women's sports at the collegiate level, Cal Poly hopes to inspire similar programs across the country.