North Greenville University, a private institution in South Carolina, announced that it will add women's flag football to its varsity athletics slate, bringing the total number of NCAA-sanctioned programs to 21.
The new program is slated to begin competition in the 2027-28 academic year, with the first recruiting class set to arrive on campus in the fall of 2027.
University President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. said the move reflects a deliberate effort to expand athletic opportunities while aligning with emerging trends in collegiate sports.
The surge in popularity of flag football across high schools, bolstered by National Football League endorsement and its upcoming debut at the 2028 Olympic Games, has created a fertile environment for collegiate adoption.
A growing sport reshapes collegiate athletics
Will Lowrey, NGU’s Athletic Director, emphasized that the university will seek student-athletes who combine competitive skill with strong character and academic performance.
The team will enter the competitive arena of Conference Carolinas for the spring 2028 season, marking the program’s inaugural campaign against regional opponents.
The decision also underscores a broader NCAA initiative that elevated women's flag football to an Emerging Sport status at its 2026 convention, a step that many observers view as a precursor to full championship sponsorship.
University officials hope the program will serve as a pipeline for leadership development, offering student-athletes pathways to professional opportunities and community impact.