In the heart of Southern California, a group of former college athletes has come together to play the sport they love, despite being told for years that tackle football was not an option for women. This team, known as Cali War, represents a bold step forward for gender equity in athletics.
A Team Forged by Determination
Cali War is a merger of two historic squads, the L.A. Warriors and the Central California War Angels, uniting players from across the state. The roster is spread out over a wide geographic area, stretching from Culver City to the Inland Empire, from the Antelope Valley to the Central Valley, which makes regular practice a logistical challenge.
During the offseason the team converges for just one weekend a month, squeezing in two four‑hour practices before returning to their everyday lives. Despite the limited time on the field, the players bring relentless energy and a fierce commitment to the sport.
Competing in the Women’s Football Alliance Pro division, the team does not receive a salary, but members do earn postseason travel stipends. Their games have begun to reach a national audience, with the league’s championship broadcast on ESPN and streams available on platforms such as AWSN, Unbeaten and Swerve.
Lisa King, a former player turned commissioner, serves as the team’s listed owner and oversees its operations. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its footprint, recently announcing a new headquarters in Canton, Ohio, near the Pro Football Hall of Fame, signaling the league’s growing influence.
Player stories highlight the depth of dedication within the squad. Running back and linebacker Nori Washington stresses that communication and trust are the foundation of their success, while Alyssa Williams, a running back and defensive back, took the field while nursing an injured ankle. One teammate missed a flight to a game in Reno and arrived in tears, underscoring how much the team means to each member.
The mantra “If you see it, you can be it” resonates throughout the community. Young fans watching the team’s progress are inspired to pick up a ball and imagine themselves on the field, while the players themselves find purpose in mentoring the next generation.
With a current record of 3‑1 heading into their final home game of 2026 against Houston at Duarte High, the team remains focused on growth and visibility. Their journey, marked by perseverance and camaraderie, illustrates how determination can reshape perceptions of women’s tackle football.