The inaugural Banderas United flag football camp in Salinas brought together more than 160 girls, offering a first‑hand experience of a sport that has long been dominated by men. The event was organized by the HER is US Foundation in partnership with the Reggie Stephens Foundation, NORCAL Flag Football, and Alisal High School Girls Flag Football.
Designed to introduce flag football to young women across the United States and Mexico, the camp emphasized athletics, mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement. Participants trained not only on the field but also through workshops that connected them with role models and peers.
A New Era for Women’s Flag Football
The Banderas United tour will continue through several cities in both countries, expanding the reach of the program. Former New York Giants player Reggie Stephens sponsored the tour through his eponymous foundation, highlighting the importance of creating pathways for women in a traditionally male‑centric arena.
Jose Sanchez, founder of the HER is US Foundation, noted that flag football is growing rapidly and will reshape the sport landscape by the time it makes its Olympic debut in Los Angeles in 2028. He emphasized that the sport offers scholarship opportunities and a clear route to higher education for many young athletes.
Nationwide, participation in girls flag football has surged by more than 50 percent from the 2023‑24 to the 2024‑25 season, with over 2,000 schools across California now offering programs. The NFL has also begun investing heavily, supporting college teams and featuring the sport at the Pro Bowl, where the flag football game attracted 4.7 million viewers last year.
Beyond the field, the movement is creating tangible pathways. Scholarships, collegiate team announcements, and increased media coverage are turning what was once a niche activity into a viable career track for many young women. As the sport’s profile rises, organizers hope to sustain momentum and broaden access for the next generation.