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Binghamton University to Launch Women's Flag Football Team in 2028
The university's new varsity sport will be one of the first of its kind in the region.
Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:06pm
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Binghamton University announced plans to add a women's varsity flag football team, with the inaugural season set to begin in spring 2028. The program will be one of the first of its kind in the region, as flag football continues to grow in popularity at the high school and college levels, including being added to the 2028 Summer Olympics roster.
Why it matters
The addition of a women's flag football team provides a new athletic opportunity for talented young women at Binghamton University, aligning with the NCAA's decision to recognize the sport as an emerging sport. This move also reflects the broader trend of flag football's rising popularity, which could lead to further expansion at the collegiate level.
The details
Binghamton's flag football team will compete in a 7-on-7 format on an 80'x40' field, with four 12-minute quarters. Players will wear flag belts with sockets and two pop-up flags on either side of their hips. Touchdowns are worth 6 points, with the option for 1 or 2 extra points. The team will practice and play games at the Bearcats Sports Complex East Field, which is also used by the soccer and lacrosse programs.
- Binghamton University announced the new women's flag football team on February 20, 2026.
- The inaugural intercollegiate season is set to begin in spring 2028.
- Flag football will be added to the 2028 Summer Olympics roster.
The players
Eugene Marshall, Jr.
Director of Binghamton University Athletics.
What they’re saying
“With the NCAA's decision to add women's flag football as an emerging sport, this is the perfect time to provide a wonderful opportunity for our talented young ladies to compete in the sport. It's one of the fastest-growing sports, and I believe it will be a great addition to Bearcat Athletics. We also look forward to exploring a partnership with the ECAC as we begin to develop this program.”
— Eugene Marshall, Jr., Director of Binghamton University Athletics
What’s next
Binghamton University Athletics will begin the search for a head coach for the new women's flag football team, followed by recruiting student-athletes to join the inaugural roster. The university also plans to explore a partnership with the ECAC as they develop the program.
The takeaway
Binghamton University's decision to add a women's varsity flag football team reflects the growing popularity of the sport at the high school and college levels, as well as the NCAA's recognition of flag football as an emerging sport. This new athletic opportunity for female students aligns with the university's commitment to providing diverse and inclusive sports programs.
