Dominican University New York Department of Athletics has announced that women’s flag football will become it’s 20th sport, with its inaugural season in the spring of 2027.
“Flag football is one of the fastest growing sports in the country right now,” said Director of Athletics Joseph S. Clinton. “With it most likely going to be recognized by the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program, it is the perfect time for us to add it to our roster of women sports.”
Women’s collegiate flag football showcases seven players on a football field that is 40 yards width by 80 yards in length. Each team moves offensively by running or passing a football, while the defense tries to “tackle” by pulling flags on the best of the ball carrier.
Flag football will hopefully be recognized by the NCAA in January 2026 as part of its Emerging Sports for Women program, which fosters opportunities for female athletes and expands competitive options for colleges and universities. More than 65 NCAA schools already sponsor the sport at the club or varsity level, and flag football is slated to debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics.
With the addition of Dominican, the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) will have seven members who sponsor the sport in 2026-2027. Caldwell University, Chestnut Hill College, the University of Bridgeport, Goldey-Beacom College, Holy Family University and Post University have previously announced the decision. The Lady Chargers will compete in the CACC with the hopes of competing the 2027 CACC Women’s Flag Football Championship Tournament.
Flag football is the fifth new sport Dominican University has introduced over the past five years.