New York Jets Launch Historic Women's Flag Football League with Media Day at MetLife Stadium

New York Jets Launch Women's Flag Football League

On March 2, 2026, the New York Jets officially kicked off their groundbreaking Jets ECAC Women's Flag Football League with a vibrant Media Day at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This event marked the beginning of the largest collegiate flag football league in the nation, attracting 15 schools from seven states, all eager to showcase their commitment to women's sports.

The Media Day featured a series of engaging activities, including a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Kay Adams, a prominent sports personality from FanDuel TV. The discussion emphasized the significant growth of women's flag football, highlighting its importance in promoting female participation in sports and looking ahead to the future of the game. Key panelists included ECAC Commissioner Dan Coonan, USA Football Senior Director Callie Brownson, and Team USA Flag Football Player Brianna Hernandez-Silva.

Throughout the day, every participating school had their coaches and players take to the stage, engaging in one-on-one interviews with local and national media. This not only built excitement around the league but also provided an excellent platform for the athletes to share their aspirations and experiences in the sport.

The Jets ECAC Women's Flag Football League signifies a crucial step for the organization in fostering female athletes. The league's establishment was made possible thanks to the generous $1 million donation from the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation, a move aimed at funding the creation of this unprecedented league. At the league's inception, 15 schools committed to participate, with plans to expand to at least 20 schools for the 2027 season, further widening opportunities for young women in flag football.

In addition to the panel discussions, players and coaches were treated to unique experiences at the stadium, such as custom photo sessions, video shoots, and locker room tours. The content generated during the Media Day will be instrumental in promoting the league during its inaugural season and beyond. This event also serves as a natural transition for young female players wishing to continue their flag football journey from youth and high school to collegiate competition.

The New York Jets have long been dedicated to advocating for girls and women in sports, and the establishment of the Jets ECAC Women's Flag Football League builds upon their existing programs that support youth, high school, and elite travel teams. By integrating this new collegiate tier, the Jets enhance their comprehensive framework aimed at empowering young women in the realm of flag football.

The Betty Wold Johnson Foundation, which played a pivotal role in this league's formation, epitomizes a legacy of philanthropy rooted in community upliftment. Known for her dedication to civic responsibility, the foundation strives to impact education, public service, arts, and sports positively.

As the Jets embark on this new chapter, they continue to reinforce their commitment to the community and the growth of women's sports, underscoring the importance of providing opportunities and platforms for female athletes. With the 2026 collegiate flag football season underway, anticipation builds for the remarkable talent that will flourish under this new league, representing a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of women's sports.

For further details on the league, including schedules and standings, visit the official Jets website. The future of women's flag football looks bright, and the New York Jets are at the forefront, paving the way for the next generation of female athletes.