ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst University today announced the addition of women's flag football to its sports lineup, beginning competition in the 2025-26 academic year. The decision highlights Mercyhurst's ongoing dedication to enhancing athletic opportunities for female student-athletes and embracing emerging sports that are growing in popularity across the nation.
As one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, women's flag football is being met with increased participation at the high school and collegiate levels. As a fast-paced, skills-driven, and highly strategic non-contact sport, it has become a favorite among athletes and spectators alike.
"This initiative underscores our commitment to expanding opportunities for female student-athletes while fostering a vibrant, inclusive campus community. Women's flag football is a dynamic and empowering sport, and we are thrilled to bring it to Mercyhurst," said Dr. Laura Zirkle, vice president for student life and athletics.
The emergence of women's flag football is supported and encouraged by the National Football League. The NFL front office and all 32 clubs are investing resources to grow the sport, from backing local girls' leagues to offering scholarship programs.
"We are proud to support the addition of women's flag football at Mercyhurst, and we're excited about the opportunity to be a part of such an emerging sport," added Director of Athletics Joe Spano.
Targeting a roster of approximately 20+ student-athletes, women's flag football is played in a 7-on-7 format. Players are equipped with belts with flags that hang along their sides that opponents must pull. Scoring mirrors traditional football, with the exception that extra points are based on yards to gain in a set play rather than kicking a field goal.
Initially, the new program will operate independently, unaffiliated with a specific conference. Such autonomy will allow for a dynamic and flexible schedule, with the team competing against a diverse range of opponents regionally and nationally. The program will aim to build a competitive presence within the growing landscape of collegiate women's flag football.
Consistent with the university's mission of fostering inclusivity and excellence within its athletic department, the new program will benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including fields, training equipment, and academic support services that ensure student-athletes are positioned for success on and off the field.
Recruitment efforts for the inaugural team are underway, targeting talented student-athletes from across the country who want to be part of Mercyhurst history. The program will provide players with an unparalleled experience, including leadership development opportunities, competitive gameplay, and access to the university's resources.
Mercyhurst will begin a search for the program's first-ever coach immediately. Interested candidates can apply on the Mercyhurst Employment Opportunities page.
