University of Bridgeport Introduces Women’s Flag Football as 23rd Varsity Sport

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. - University of Bridgeport (UB) is proud to announce the addition of women's flag football to its athletics program, marking the University's 23rd varsity sport. The Purple Knights will start competition in 2026-27 and plan to be a part of the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC).

"We're thrilled to announce the addition of Women's Flag Football as our newest varsity sport at University of Bridgeport," said UB's Director of Athletics Anthony Vitti. "This exciting addition reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for female student-athletes while embracing the growth of one of the nation's fastest emerging sports. We're proud to be part of the movement advancing women's athletics and can't wait to see our student-athletes make history on the field."

UB already competes in 13 sports within the CACC and is proud to deepen its conference involvement with this newest addition. UB will join Caldwell, Holy Family, Goldey-Beacom, Post, and Chestnut Hill to make a total of six CACC institutions that either currently offer women's flag football or have stated their intent to compete in the sport in the near future.

What is flag football?

Flag football is a non-contact sport that combines the strategy and excitement of traditional football. The sport is played with seven players on each side of an 80-yard field.

Offensive players advance the ball through running or passing, while defensive players stop plays by pulling the ball carrier's flag.

The growth of the sport is occurring nationwide with more than 65 NCAA schools currently sponsoring women's flag football at the varsity or club level.

Why is UB adding women's flag football?

• Opportunity: Women's flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., with rising participation among young women and increasing varsity adoption by collegiate programs.
• Alignment with institutional mission: UB continues to expand its athletic offerings in ways that emphasize student-athlete development, competitive balance, and access to new experiences.
• Conference synergy: With the CACC signaling support for women's flag football to start play during the 2026-27 school year, UB is well positioned to be a part of the sport's growth in our region.

What are the next steps for women's flag football?

• The program is being developed with full varsity status, including recruiting efforts, coaching searches, and competitive scheduling in line with CACC guidelines.
• UB anticipates the team's first competitive season in the spring semester of 2027, aligning with when many women's flag football programs compete.
• Prospective student-athletes and those interested in exploring the new program are encouraged to contact Anthony Vitti (anthonyv@bridgeport.edu) for more information.

For all information regarding Bridgeport Athletics, visit www.UBKnights.com and follow UB Athletics on Facebook (UBPurpleKnights), X (@UBPurpleKnights), and Instagram (@UBPurpleKnights).