Joliet Junior College Adds Women's Flag Football Team

Joliet Junior College will field a women's flag football team for the first time during the 2027-28 academic year. The addition marks the ninth new sport program launched at the college since 2019. JJC Athletics director Gregg Braun confirmed the program will begin recruiting student-athletes immediately in preparation for its inaugural season.

The college's decision follows a June 2026 vote by the National Junior College Athletic Association Board of Regents. That body elevated women's flag football to official championship sport status. This move creates a formal competitive pathway for junior college athletes. JJC becomes the third community college in Illinois to offer the sport. Nationally, it is approximately the 38th institution within the association to add the program.

Braun stated that the addition reflects a commitment to expanding opportunities for women in collegiate athletics. He noted that participation in the sport is continuing to grow within the district. "With participation continuing to grow within our district, now is the perfect time for JJC to provide student-athletes with an opportunity to continue competing at the collegiate level," Braun said.

The growth of the sport in Illinois has been rapid over the last few years. In 2021, only 21 high school teams participated statewide. By 2024, the Illinois High School Association sanctioned the sport. As of 2026, nearly 280 Illinois high schools fielded teams. According to the National Federation of State High Schools Association, girls flag football surpassed 100,000 participants nationwide in the 2025-26 school year. The count reached 102,360 student-athletes at nearly 4,000 high schools.

Momentum in the junior college division is also increasing. During the 2026-27 academic year, 33 member institutions sponsored women's flag football. The first NJCAA Women's Flag Football National Championship is scheduled for 2027-28. This timing aligns with JJC's plan to launch its own program that same season.

Braun credited several individuals for supporting the effort to bring the sport to Joliet. He thanked Dr. Angie Kaysen-Luzbetak, Dr. Karl Brooks, and Dr. Clyne Namuo for their leadership. Braun said he sent his first email regarding the sport on July 24, 2024. He described the launch as the culmination of a vision that has been developing for years.

The Chicago Bears organization also provided support throughout the process. Braun specifically thanked Gustavo Silva of the Bears for his advocacy. Braun said Silva was a resource as the college explored the requirements to launch the program. The Bears continue to invest in the growth of girls and women's flag football, and their support has made an immediate impact on the college's efforts.

Details regarding the coaching staff, recruiting opportunities, and game schedules will be announced in the coming months. The college is currently establishing the program structure. Students interested in trying out should watch for further announcements from JJC Athletics.