The Rise of Flag Football in College Sports

Flag football, a sport that has been gaining momentum across the United States, is taking a significant step toward becoming an official NCAA sport. This development was highlighted during a recent club flag football game between Arizona State University (ASU) and Grand Canyon University (GCU), which marked the opening of the 2026 season. The game took place on January 24, with GCU emerging victorious with a score of 25-0.

A Stellar Performance by Ella Bernier

One of the standout players in the game was junior quarterback Ella Bernier from GCU. Her performance was nothing short of impressive, as she accounted for four touchdowns. Bernier’s most notable play came when she completed a 35-yard touchdown run, showcasing her agility and determination on the field.

This game was not just about the final score; it was a glimpse into the future of collegiate sports. Flag football is set to make its debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, signaling a major shift in the landscape of competitive sports. The game between ASU and GCU could be seen as a stepping stone toward flag football’s recognition as a sanctioned sport by the NCAA.

A Growing Fanbase

Despite the modest size of the stands at GCU’s Track Athletics Field, the atmosphere was electric with excitement. Fans gathered to witness this historic match, showing their support for both teams. The enthusiasm in the crowd reflected the growing interest in flag football and its potential to become a staple in college sports.

The Future of Flag Football

The inclusion of flag football in the 2028 Olympics is a clear indication of its increasing popularity and acceptance. As more universities begin to recognize the sport, it is likely that we will see more games like the one between ASU and GCU. These matches not only provide entertainment but also serve as opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills and passion for the game.

Key Points About the Game

• The game between Arizona State and Grand Canyon University marked the start of the 2026 season for club flag football.
• GCU won the game with a score of 25-0.
• Ella Bernier, a junior quarterback for GCU, played a crucial role in the victory, scoring four touchdowns.
• The game was a significant moment in the journey of flag football toward becoming an official NCAA sport.
• Despite the small number of spectators, the event was well-attended, highlighting the growing fanbase for the sport.

“It’s electric,” GCU coach Brian Tice said. “This sport is growing as we speak and to have this support for two local teams, it’s amazing.”

The sidelines were also mostly filled with fans as well as the crowd cheered on both teams in the first game for the teams since flag football was officially added to the NCAA Emerging Sports program.

“To see all the people that come out here, just stand on a field with no stands – I mean, give us a stadium, and we’re going to fill it,” Arizona State coach Jesse Pap said. “There’s that much energy about the sport. Coach Tice and I are both excited about it.”

With flag football in the Emerging Sports program, it is now on the pathway toward reaching NCAA status. There are certain thresholds that need to be met, but enthusiasm is building.

Flag football has been one of the fastest-growing sports at the youth, high school and collegiate levels. According to the International Federation of American Football, 2.4 million kids under 17 are playing organized flag football in the U.S., while millions more participate in flag globally.

Right now, flag football is only played officially at the NAIA level, which oversees small college athletics. Arizona Christian University is set to begin its first season this year, but other states have already gotten a head start. 

Pap and Tice hope that if flag football becomes an official NCAA sport, that it will help with recruiting.

“I think Arizona is overlooked, to be honest,” Pap said. “Coach Tice and I, we’re tired of seeing all of our stud Arizona athletes go to Kansas, Florida. We want to keep them in the great state of Arizona.”

Tice’s current roster is filled from all over the country.

“We see what type of athletes we have here,” Tice said. “The sport is just growing so fast. With it going possibly NCAA, it’s going to be a big deal for us in Arizona.”

For Bernier, who was one of the first people to sign up for the club at GCU before its inaugural season in 2024, the game was a special moment. She’s from Chicago and didn’t get to play flag football in high school. Friends and family flew in from Illinois to see her play.

Bernier has watched the club grow since joining. There are 28 athletes on this year’s roster.

“I’m so glad I’ve been here since day one,” Bernier said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the girls and the coaching staff we have today. I was here before I even knew flag football was a thing. To see it blow up overnight, in the Olympics now, the momentum is going crazy now. NFL teams sponsoring teams. It’s seriously going to be one of the next big things.”

Logan Stanley is a sports reporter with The Arizona Republic who primarily focuses on high school, college and Olympic sports. To suggest ideas for human-interest stories and other news, reach out to Stanley at logan.stanley@usatodayco.com or 707-293-7650. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @LSscribe.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: GCU, ASU club flag football face off. Could NCAA sanction the sport?