The club women’s flag football team is making big moves this spring with its first competitions and being invited to the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC.)
The ECAC is the first and largest intercollegiate women’s flag football league. The conference recently announced it has been given a $1 million grant supported by the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation, directed by New York Jets owner Woody Johnson.
The conference has invited Sacred Heart’s very own flag football team to compete this upcoming spring.
“The first practice I think we had seven, but it quickly grew within a couple of weeks where we had enough to scrimmage each other,” said head coach Kate DuBois.
“We play seven-on-seven and now our roster is at 30. To have that many girls come out knowing that there was no definite schedule, we didn’t know if we were going to play games or how many we were going to play. For them to all stay and stick with it, and still love to play, it’s awesome,” said DuBois.
The team is currently building their schedule for the upcoming months and plans to travel to at least three different locations. The Pioneers plan to go head-to-head against Long Island University, Montclair State University, Wagner College, Penn State Schuylkill, Mercy University and St. Joseph’s University.
“My biggest expectation is consistency. I want the team to work hard. I want them to be there for each other, stay united, because they are very united right now,” said DuBois. “I want them to keep it that way. It’s awesome.”
The team has had a lot of fun practicing with each other, building each other up, and preparing for their first season together.
Source: Contributed by Dayna Mercogliano, ‘26
“We have to grow individually because it’s a very team-based sport. If one part of our team lacks a certain area, teams know to pick on it, so if we individually grow and become the best player at our position, or in general. I think it’ll just allow everyone to grow altogether and make us come together as one, great, solid unit and that’s what the goal is, ultimately,” said senior Dayna Mercogliano.
“The ECAC sets a great standard, a high standard for athleticism, and it’s a great platform for athletes. You know, to not only showcase their talents, but also grow in their talents.” said DuBois. “Having games to compete in and working for a championship, it brings a different light and a different level of effort.”
“The fact that we were able to be a part of the first inaugural season, even though we just developed the team in September is huge,” said Mercogliano. “There’s so much eagerness, the participation is so high, and there’s so much to play for now.”
“Having a structured league, backed by the New York Jets, is also huge too. It’s also huge that the NFL is recognizing how fast the sport is growing and being able to be a part of it is super cool,” said Mercogliano. “The backing also shows such support and opportunities for women.”
The Pioneers plan to travel to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. for a media day on Feb. 27 to recognize their involvement in the conference.
