A Community Initiative on the Field
The Raiders partnered with the UNLV School of Public Health to organize a flag football camp for middle school girls in Henderson, Nevada. The event combined on‑field drills with workshops on nutrition, mental well‑being, and physical fitness, creating a holistic experience that went beyond the game.
Central to the effort is the RUSH program, which seeks to capture girls' interest in flag football at a time when participation rates among young women are declining. With the sport slated to become an Olympic event in 2028, organizers see an unprecedented opportunity to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Middle school years mark a critical juncture for girls' sports participation. Research shows that many drop out of athletics during this period, often due to disordered eating, mental health challenges, or lack of supportive environments. The camp directly addresses these issues by embedding health education into every activity.
Beyond the physical benefits — such as cooperation, teamwork, and resilience — sports provide a platform for building confidence and overcoming adversity. Participants were encouraged to view the field as a space for personal growth, where every pass and tackle could translate into life skills.
The collaboration also involved Nevada State College, whose public health experts contributed curriculum on nutrition and mental wellness. Community advocate Jennifer Pharr highlighted the importance of such partnerships, noting that "when sport, health, and education intersect, the impact multiplies for young women."
As the camp wrapped up, organizers expressed optimism that the model could be replicated in schools across the region, fostering a pipeline of confident, health‑conscious athletes ready to embrace the upcoming Olympic spotlight.