Union, N.J. (4/14/26) – The Kean University women's flag football team will clash with the University of Montana this weekend as part of the Garden State/Garden City Clash.
Kean University added women's flag football last season, increasing the university's total varsity offerings to 24.
Kean University joined a growing number of colleges and universities across all levels of the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA in adding women's flag football to their athletic offerings. The NCAA recognized the sport as an Emerging Sport for Women in January.
The University of Montana added women's flag football this spring to its club offerings making it the first collegiate program in the state of Montana and across the Northwest.
"I'm excited to see Kean University continuing to support the growth of women's flag football by hosting the University of Montana in the Garden City vs. Garden State cross regional match up," stated Kelly Williams, Vice President of Athletics and Recreation. "Opportunities like this inspire young women to keep dreaming about where the game can take them in the near future. From hosting in Dubai to now welcoming a team from Montana, our commitment to expanding the flag football movement continues to grow. This is more than just a game; it's about creating pathways, building confidence, and opening doors to the next generation of athletes."
The NFL has also been an advocate for women's flag football at both the collegiate and high school levels, further fueling its national momentum.
Flag football is also experiencing rapid growth at the interscholastic level. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), nearly 69,000 girls participated in flag football during the 2024-25 school year.
"This journey from the mountains of Montana to the east coast is fueled by far more than just a love for the game; it is fueled by a relentless, collective belief in these young women," stated Rajiem Seabrook, Head Coach, University of Montana Women's Flag Football. "Because of how beautifully this has materialized, I am thrilled to share that this is a true exchange—Kean University will be traveling to Missoula next year to play on our turf. We aren't just traveling across the country to play a game; we are building a national bridge for the future of women's athletics."
This year's matchup will take place this Saturday in Union at Kean Alumni Stadium, beginning at 1 p.m. As part of the quad matchups, Post University and St. Joseph's University will also be participating in contests throughout the afternoon.
