College of Saint Benedict Introduces Flag Football Program
In an exciting development for athletic programs, the College of Saint Benedict has announced the addition of flag football to its sports offerings. The college is teaming up with the Minnesota Vikings and other regional universities to introduce this dynamic sport, showcasing a commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for women.
Partnership with the Minnesota Vikings
The initiative comes from a collaboration with the Minnesota Vikings, known for their support of upcoming sports initiatives. Starting this spring, the college will launch its inaugural flag football team, joining the ranks of other institutions involved in the Midwest College Women's Flag Football League.
The Growing Popularity of Flag Football
Flag football is rapidly gaining traction as one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, especially among women and girls. With flag football included in the itinerary for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the timing of this new program at the College of Saint Benedict is not just fortuitous; it's strategic. CSB's Athletic Director, Kelly Anderson Diercks, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, highlighting the sport's growth across the country, particularly in Minnesota.
Enhancing Opportunities for Women
Flag football's introduction at CSB aligns perfectly with the college's mission to enhance opportunities for women in sports. Kara Kolomitz, Chief Operating Officer at CSB and SJU, remarked on how significant it is to bring an energetic and spirited dimension to their athletics program through this initiative. The excitement within the college community is palpable, driven by a desire to foster joy in sports among students.
Nurturing Future Athletes
Since 2022, the Minnesota Vikings have invested significantly in promoting girls' and women's flag football, amassing over $1 million in support at both high school and collegiate levels in the Midwest. Brett Taber, Vice President of Social Impact for the Vikings, expressed pride in partnering with CSB as they contribute to the growing movement of women's flag football. This collaboration aims to elevate awareness and inspire future generations of female athletes.
Student Engagement and Interest
The announcement has sparked immediate interest among students, with 25 first-year students already expressing a desire to join the team at a recent involvement fair. This level of enthusiasm is encouraging, according to Anderson Diercks, who is currently overseeing the search for a head coach. First-year student Alaina Pundsack, recognized as an All-State athlete, is enthusiastic about her contribution to establishing this new team at CSB.
Long-Standing Football Tradition
The passion for football runs deep at the College of Saint Benedict, especially since Saint John's football team is a formidable contender in NCAA Division III, consistently drawing high attendance figures. Diercks emphasized CSB's commitment to growing enrollment through athletics and club sports, stating that the new flag football program presents an incredible opportunity to attract vibrant young individuals to both campuses. This initiative reflects a rich football history, with hopes for the Bennies to create their own legacy.
The Current Landscape of Flag Football
As of mid-2025, flag football stands out as the fastest-growing emerging sport at the high school level across the nation. Seventeen states have established sanctioning for girls’ flag football, while another seventeen are in the pilot stages of development. The introduction of this sport at the College of Saint Benedict is poised to contribute to this national expansion, nurturing more young female athletes and fostering greater participation in competitive sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the significance of the flag football program for CSB?
The program enhances athletic opportunities for women, aligns with the college's mission, and promotes student engagement in sports.
2. What does the partnership with the Minnesota Vikings entail?
The Vikings are supporting the development of flag football at collegiate levels, contributing resources, and promoting the sport through CSB.
3. How many students have expressed interest in joining the flag football team?
Currently, 25 first-year students have shown interest in joining the newly established team.
4. What is the future of flag football in high schools?
Flag football is the fastest-growing sport among high school girls, with many states adopting and promoting it on various levels.
5. Who will coach the new flag football team?
The search for a head coach is currently underway as the college prepares to launch the program.
