Editor’s Note: This article was also published in the Benet Herald 2025 Graduation Edition.

Benet Academy is thrilled to announce the addition of a new girls sport coming next fall- Girls Flag Football. This is a very exciting new addition to the Benet Academy Athletic Department. Both faculty and students are eagerly anticipating the impact this new sport will bring to the Benet community.

Sports have always played an important role at Benet Academy. Sports are especially powerful because they give students the opportunity to portray their faith life to others at sporting events. The combination of faith and sports reflects the traditions that are central at Benet Academy. Introducing flag football will continue this tradition, creating another place where students can express both school spirit and faith.

A lot of girls expressed interest in the team. A meeting was held earlier this spring to explain the addition of flag football to Benet Athletics. There was a fantastic turnout. Around sixty girls attended, all eager to participate.

Flag football has slowly been growing in popularity around the country. Originally introduced at the high school level in 2022 with 912 teams, the sport has steadily gained traction, increasing 63% in participation. The NFL has also played an important role in promoting the sport. They aired a commercial in the Super Bowl to encourage more girls to get involved. 

This upcoming fall season will be the second year the IHSA is offering girls flag football as an official sport. Last year, a few schools participated in the inaugural year, with Fremd taking home the state title. After seeing the success of last year’s season, Benet and other schools have decided to create teams as well. 

Benet Academy plans to have two teams–JV and Varsity. They plan to practice twice a week, offering a manageable schedule that will allow students to balance flag football with other activities. Mr. Cabay, Benet Academy’s very own dean, has offered to be the head coach of this team. He has extensive football knowledge and is very excited to be a part of the start of this program. 

Erin Johnson, a junior that thinks the addition of this team is very exciting stated, “Flag Football will be a great way for students to destress from school and come together in community. I can’t wait to see what the new team accomplishes!”