BRIDGEWATER, VA (Rocktown Now) — Bridgewater College announced it will add women’s flag football as its 26th intercollegiate sport, with the program set to begin competition in the 2026–27 academic year.

The move comes as women’s flag football continues to surge in popularity nationwide. Nearly 70 NCAA institutions now sponsor the sport, which will be voted on as an Emerging Sport for Women at the Division III level during the NCAA Convention in January. Interest has accelerated further with the sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

“Bridgewater College has always been a leader in affordability, access, and opportunities for our students,” said BC president Dr. David Bushman. “We are very excited to step forward as a leader in the Shenandoah Valley by launching women’s flag football and expanding the winning culture of our athletic program.”

Bushman added that the sport’s rapid rise in Virginia, coupled with strong youth participation, makes this “the right time” for Bridgewater to introduce the program and help inspire future female student-athletes.

Support from the National Football League has been a major driver of the sport’s growth, with the league working to boost participation from youth leagues to college programs. Seventeen states now offer varsity high school flag football, with more expected to follow. The Washington Commanders have also played a key role in expanding the sport in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C.

“Watching women’s flag football gain traction at the collegiate level marks an exciting milestone,” said Dan Levy, the Commanders’ Director of Youth Football. “Bridgewater College’s commitment reflects that momentum, and we’re grateful to work alongside programs like theirs to create even more athletic and academic opportunities for young women.”

Within the Old Dominion Athletic Conference, Hollins and Virginia Wesleyan already sponsor the sport. Bridgewater and Guilford are set to join them in 2026–27, with additional ODAC schools considering similar moves.

“Bridgewater College’s addition of flag football as a varsity sport marks another exciting step forward for both the ODAC and Division III,” said ODAC commissioner Brad Bankston. “As more institutions elevate the sport, this growth positions the conference to sponsor a championship in the not-too-distant future.”

Director of Athletics Curt Kendall said the college aims to field a competitive team immediately. “We are excited about providing another athletic opportunity for women at Bridgewater,” Kendall said. “We encourage female high school student-athletes in the region to become part of our first women’s flag football team.”