Women’s flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in California and across the nation. The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) officially recognized the sport beginning with the 2023–24 school year, and nearly 20,000 high school student-athletes participated statewide last year. Recognizing its rapid growth, the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A) has designated women’s flag football as an emerging sport beginning in spring 2027, with the goal of becoming a fully sanctioned championship sport by 2028.

MSJC’s program will begin training during the fall 2026 semester and compete in its inaugural season in spring 2027. Based at the College’s San Jacinto Campus, the program will provide local student-athletes with the opportunity to continue competing at the collegiate level while pursuing their academic goals.

“We are excited to give the young female student-athletes of our region another opportunity to continue their athletic careers here at MSJC,” said Patrick Springer, Dean of Athletics and Student Life. “Flag football is by far the fastest-growing female sport in our area, and we believe that enthusiasm will translate into a strong and competitive program. We’re thrilled to welcome Jonathan Norton to lead this exciting new chapter for Eagle Athletics.”

Norton brings nearly a decade of coaching experience at the high school level. He currently serves as the head girls flag football coach at Moreno Valley High School, where he has also coached tackle football as defensive coordinator and secondary coach. In addition to football, Norton has coached track and field and directed strength and conditioning programs, helping develop successful teams while emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic.

Before beginning his coaching career, Norton played NCAA Division I football at Fresno State University, where he helped the Bulldogs capture two Mountain West Conference championships and earn three bowl game appearances.

“I take pride in creating structured environments where student-athletes are challenged to grow not only as competitors, but also as students and leaders in their communities,” Norton said. “I’m excited to build this program from the ground up and help provide a positive, competitive experience for our student-athletes while contributing to the continued growth of women’s flag football.”

As part of the program’s launch, MSJC will offer PEIC 161-A, an introductory women’s flag football course during the fall semester to prepare athletes for competition in the spring season.

The College is currently recruiting student-athletes interested in joining the inaugural team. Prospective players are encouraged to complete the MSJC Women’s Flag Football recruitment questionnaire or contact Coach Jonathan Norton directly at cnorton@msjc.edu for more information.

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