Manchester University will add women’s flag football to its 20 NCAA-sanctioned sports in Fall 2027.
Tabbed as an emerging NCAA sport in January 2026, this initiative aims to capitalize off of the growing popularity of women’s flag football in youth leagues, high schools and collegiate clubs. Women’s flag football was able to achieve NCAA championship status with help from the Emerging Sports for Women program, which supports broader sports opportunities for women. It has also been added as a sport for the 2028 Summer Olympics.
More than 100 colleges have sponsored varsity or club flag football teams in 2026. Manchester is the first university in the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) to adopt women’s flag football.
“We look forward to building a program that will provide an outstanding student-athlete experience while creating new opportunities to thrive on and off the field,” said Rick Espeset, director of athletics and head baseball coach at Manchester.
Athletes will compete in a fast-paced, 7-on-7 format. Manchester plans to begin competing in Spring 2028, allowing time for prospective student-athlete recruitment.
A national search for a head coach is ongoing.
Press release written by communications intern Chris Rohr.
For the media
Contact Rick Espeset, director of athletics and head baseball coach, at RBEspeset@manchester.edu.
Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
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Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
