UMES to Add Women's Flag Football Program in 2026-27

PRINCESS ANNE Md. – The University of Maryland Eastern Shore is adding another athletics program. The Hawks announced they will add a women's flag football team beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. With the addition, the Hawks will sponsor 16 NCAA Division I sports. UMES President Dr. Heidi M. Anderson said the university is "excited to create a new opportunity for student-athletes through the addition of women's flag football to our robust athletics program."

Women's flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country and around the world. The sport is set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, and the NCAA recently approved women's flag football as an emerging sport for women.