Saint Joseph's College of Maine has appointed Kayla Pierce as the first head coach of its women's flag football program, making history as the state’s first NCAA varsity-level collegiate team. Starting August 17, 2026, Pierce will focus on recruiting, infrastructure development, and preparing for the inaugural 2028 season. Her background includes coaching women's rugby at Robert Morris University and extensive experience in flag football as a player and coach.

By the Numbers
  • Over 60,000 girls participated in youth flag football leagues nationwide during the 2024-25 season.
  • Women's flag football was recognized as an NCAA Emerging Sport for Women in January 2026, with over 40 schools already sponsoring it.
State of Play
  • Saint Joseph's College will now sponsor its 21st varsity sport with women's flag football.
  • The program will be established amidst significant national growth in women's flag football, expected to debut in the Olympics in 2028.
What's Next

Pierce will be actively recruiting student-athletes over the next two years to ensure a strong foundation for the program. As anticipation rises for its first season in Spring 2028, more information on scheduling and community events will be released to garner support and interest.

Bottom Line

With Kayla Pierce at the helm, Saint Joseph's College is positioning itself at the forefront of women's flag football in Maine, aiming not just for competitive success but also for empowering young female athletes in the sport.