Thomas Collins, a defensive tackle for the University of Central Florida, recently opened up about the lofty goals his wife, Frida, carries as she chases an Olympic berth in the newly introduced women’s flag football event at the Los Angeles Games of 2028.
Frida Collins, a slot receiver and defensive back for Sweden’s women’s national flag football side, first crossed paths with Thomas on a modest under‑13 pitch in Gothenburg, and eight years later they remain partners both on and off the field.
Olympic ambitions take shape
The sport’s Olympic debut has turned Sweden into a contender for a single qualification slot, a prize that the United States, Mexico and Canada have already secured, leaving the Swedish federation to fight for the remaining place.
Thomas says he stands behind Frida’s pursuit, admiring her leadership and dedication, and he has even entertained the notion of swapping his UCF uniform for a spot on Sweden’s men’s squad should they earn a spot, envisioning himself as a pass‑rusher or a tight end.
Standing 6‑foot‑1 and weighing 295 pounds, his physical profile fits the demands of those roles, a fact underscored by his previous stint with Gothenburg Marvels where he contributed as a tight end in a wing‑T scheme during the club’s championship run.
Back at UCF, Collins is focused on reversing a 5‑7 season, a task that will require him to fill the void left by departed veterans such as John Walker, Derrick LeBlanc and Rodney Lora, a challenge he meets with a recent tally of 30 tackles and half a sack.
The couple’s story illustrates how personal ambition and professional duty can intertwine, as Thomas balances his own career aspirations with the unwavering support he offers Frida as she aims for Olympic glory.