Quincy University Expands Women's Athletics with Flag Football
Quincy University announced that women's flag football will become a varsity sport beginning in the 2027-28 academic year. The addition will raise the total number of varsity programs to 29 and increase the count of women's sports to 15, marking the first expansion of the athletic department since the introduction of STUNT in 2025.
The university will commence a national search for the program's inaugural head coach, and the first recruiting class is slated to arrive on campus in the fall of 2027. This move reflects a strategic effort to capitalize on the sport's rapid rise across high schools and colleges.
A Sport on the Rise in Illinois and Beyond
In Illinois, the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) officially sanctioned girls flag football in 2024, and more than 200 high schools now field teams. The momentum has spilled into the collegiate arena, with numerous Midwestern institutions adding women's flag football programs in recent years.
The NCAA has recognized the trend, recommending women's flag football for Emerging Sports for Women status in February 2025. The sport is also slated to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, underscoring its growing legitimacy on the national stage.
Athletic Director Brian McGee emphasized that the new program aligns with Quincy's commitment to expanding opportunities for female student-athletes. "We are excited to provide a competitive pathway that reflects the interests of our students and positions Quincy as a forward‑thinking leader in collegiate athletics," McGee said.
Vice President for Student Affairs Josh Rabe added that the initiative supports the university's broader mission of fostering leadership and representation for women in sports. "This addition not only enriches our athletic portfolio but also reinforces our dedication to equity and excellence," Rabe noted.
Further details regarding coaching appointments, recruiting timelines, competition schedules, and scholarship offerings will be released in upcoming announcements.