Story perspectives

Flag Football Surge: 200+ Teams, Bears Expand Leagues

8/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

NCAA Division II football will have 161 programs for the 2025-26 season after three schools changed divisions and one closed.
Illinois girls flag football has grown to over 200 teams this year, up from 146 last season.
New pass rushing regulations have been introduced to align with collegiate standards.
The Chicago Bears are promoting girls flag football, launching leagues in the UK and Spain.
More than 50 Illinois girls are anticipated to play collegiate flag football this season.

History

Historical Context

Title IX was enacted in 1972, prohibiting gender discrimination in education and transforming women's sports in the U.S. Since then, women's collegiate sports participation has surged by 200%. Today, over 200 girls' flag football teams in Illinois and the NCAA Division II's 161 programs illustrate ongoing efforts to promote gender equity in sports, supported by initiatives from organizations like the Chicago Bears.

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Story summary

NCAA Division II football will have 161 programs for the 2025-26 season after three schools changed divisions and one closed.
Illinois girls flag football has grown to over 200 teams this year, up from 146 last season.
New pass rushing regulations have been introduced to align with collegiate standards.
The Chicago Bears are promoting girls flag football, launching leagues in the UK and Spain.
More than 50 Illinois girls are anticipated to play collegiate flag football this season.

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