The Growing Influence of Women in American Football

For decades, American football has been seen as a male-dominated sport, with limited opportunities for women to actively participate. However, over the last few years, the tides have shifted. Women are now emerging as key contributors to the sport, not only as players but also as coaches, referees, and executives. Their growing influence is transforming the landscape of American football, pushing boundaries, and paving the way for the next generation.

This article explores the pivotal roles women are playing in American football, highlighting their achievements, challenges, and the steps being taken to make the sport more inclusive.

1. Women as Trailblazing Coaches in American Football

The inclusion of women in coaching roles within football is one of the most significant milestones in recent years. These pioneers are breaking barriers and proving that expertise and leadership in football are not defined by gender.

Jen Welter – The First Female NFL Coach

• In 2015, Jen Welter made history by becoming the first female coach in the NFL when she joined the Arizona Cardinals as an intern coach.
• Welter’s success in a male-dominated environment sent a powerful message: women can coach at the highest levels of the sport.
• Since then, she has continued advocating for women’s inclusion in football through clinics and speaking engagements.

Katie Sowers – Super Bowl Trailblazer

• Katie Sowers, an offensive assistant coach for the San Francisco 49ers, became the first woman to coach in a Super Bowl during the 2020 season.
• Her presence on the sidelines during Super Bowl LIV was a landmark moment for women in football, inspiring others to follow her path.
• Sowers famously stated, “If your daughter has a dream of being a football coach, or a player, or anything she wants to do, she can do it.”

Impact of Women Coaches

• Women coaches bring diverse perspectives, fostering innovation and collaboration within coaching staffs.
• Their success helps dismantle stereotypes, opening doors for future generations of women interested in coaching football.

Key Insight: Female coaches like Jen Welter and Katie Sowers have paved the way for others, proving that knowledge, skill, and leadership have no gender.

2. Women’s Participation as Players in Football Leagues

While American football is often viewed as a male-centric sport, women’s participation in leagues and competitions is growing rapidly. Women’s tackle football leagues are providing female athletes with opportunities to compete, excel, and gain recognition for their skills.

Women’s Football Alliance (WFA)

• Founded in 2009, the Women’s Football Alliance is the premier women’s tackle football league in the United States.
• The WFA has over 60 teams and provides a platform for female athletes to play competitive, full-contact football at the highest level.
• Athletes in the WFA demonstrate the same grit, athleticism, and dedication seen in men’s leagues, but their accomplishments are often underpublicized.

International Participation

• Women’s tackle football is also gaining popularity worldwide, with teams competing in the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Women’s World Championship.
• Countries like Mexico, Canada, and Sweden have growing women’s football programs, showcasing global interest in the sport.

Flag Football and Youth Participation

• In addition to tackle football, flag football has become an accessible pathway for women and girls to participate in the sport.
• Organizations like NFL FLAG are promoting flag football programs for girls, encouraging them to develop skills and pursue their passion for football.

Example: In 2022, the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) made women’s flag football an official collegiate sport, providing opportunities for scholarships and competition.

Impact: Women’s leagues and programs create pathways for female athletes to compete, gain recognition, and inspire future generations to embrace football.

3. Breaking Barriers as Referees and Officials

Women are increasingly taking on officiating roles in football, demonstrating professionalism, precision, and expertise as referees and game officials.

Sarah Thomas – NFL’s First Female Official

• Sarah Thomas made history in 2015 as the first full-time female referee in the NFL.
• In 2021, she broke another barrier by becoming the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl, serving as a down judge in Super Bowl LV.
• Thomas’s achievements have been a catalyst for change, showing that officiating in football is not limited by gender.

Impact of Women Referees

• The presence of female officials promotes gender diversity and encourages other women to consider officiating as a career path.
• Leagues at all levels, including high school, college, and professional football, are seeing an increase in female referees who are setting new standards for excellence.

Key Insight: Trailblazers like Sarah Thomas are challenging traditional norms, proving that women can excel in officiating roles while fostering greater inclusivity in the sport.

4. Women in Executive Leadership and Front Offices

Beyond the field, women are making strides in leadership roles within football organizations, influencing team management, operations, and decision-making processes.

Kim Pegula – Owner of the Buffalo Bills

• As the co-owner of the Buffalo Bills, Kim Pegula has been instrumental in shaping the team’s success and operations.
• Pegula is one of the few women owners in the NFL, paving the way for more gender diversity in football leadership.

Front Office Roles

• Women like Callie Brownson, the Chief of Staff for the Cleveland Browns, are proving that leadership opportunities extend beyond coaching.
• Women in football front offices bring fresh perspectives to team operations, talent scouting, and fan engagement strategies.

Impact: Women in leadership roles challenge traditional power structures, demonstrating that diversity in decision-making leads to stronger, more inclusive organizations.

5. Media Representation and Advocacy for Women in Football

The increasing visibility of women in football has been amplified by media coverage and advocacy efforts. Media platforms, documentaries, and campaigns have played a critical role in breaking stereotypes and showcasing the achievements of women in American football.

Media Coverage of Women’s Football

• Traditionally, women’s contributions to football have received limited media coverage, but this is changing. Networks and sports websites are now highlighting women’s leagues, flag football, and female trailblazers.
• Platforms like ESPNW and NFL Network regularly feature women’s football stories, from profiles of prominent female coaches to coverage of leagues like the WFA.

The Role of Documentaries and Campaigns

• Documentaries such as “A Lifetime of Sundays” and “Born to Play” have brought women’s football stories to life.
  • “Born to Play” shines a spotlight on the Boston Renegades, a team in the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA), celebrating the grit and determination of women competing at the highest level.
• Campaigns like Nike’s “You Can’t Stop Us” and the NFL’s “Football is for Everyone” promote inclusivity, empowering women to embrace their role in football.

Advocacy for Greater Representation

• Female athletes, coaches, and referees have become vocal advocates for gender equity in football, using platforms like social media to raise awareness about opportunities and barriers.
• Organizations like Women’s Sports Foundation and National Girls & Women in Sports Day continue to promote pathways for women in football.

Key Insight: Media coverage and advocacy efforts amplify the visibility of women in football, helping to change public perceptions and inspire more women to participate at all levels.

6. Growth of Flag Football as a Pathway for Women

While tackle football remains a major focus, flag football has emerged as an accessible and inclusive way for women and girls to engage in the sport.

Flag Football’s Growing Popularity

• Flag football eliminates barriers such as high injury risk and equipment costs, making it more approachable for young girls and women.
• The NFL and NFL FLAG have launched initiatives to expand flag football programs at youth, high school, and collegiate levels.

Flag Football at the Collegiate Level

• The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) officially recognized women’s flag football as a collegiate sport in 2021.
• Scholarships and tournaments are now available, creating a clear pathway for athletes to pursue football at higher levels.

Global Recognition

• Flag football is being considered for inclusion in future Olympic Games, which would significantly elevate its profile and attract more female participants worldwide.

Example: In 2022, the Pro Bowl Games included flag football competitions, highlighting its appeal as a dynamic and inclusive sport.

Impact: Flag football is providing women with opportunities to develop skills, compete at elite levels, and grow their love for the game, while also serving as a gateway to tackle football.

7. Challenges Women Still Face in American Football

Despite the progress made, women in American football still face significant challenges:

1. Lack of Funding and Investment: Women’s leagues, such as the WFA, operate with far fewer resources than men’s leagues. Teams often rely on player contributions and community support to sustain operations.
2. Limited Media Coverage: While growing, media coverage of women’s football still lags behind that of men’s football. More consistent broadcasting and storytelling are needed to elevate the sport further.
3. Stereotypes and Resistance: Gender stereotypes persist, with some dismissing women’s football as less competitive or legitimate. Breaking these misconceptions remains an ongoing battle.
4. Few Professional Opportunities: While women’s leagues provide opportunities to play, professional career pathways—complete with salaries and sponsorships—are limited.

Key Insight: Addressing these challenges through increased investment, media visibility, and support systems will ensure that women continue to thrive and excel in football.

8. The Future of Women in American Football

The future of women in American football is brighter than ever, driven by the success of trailblazers, growing leagues, and increased advocacy for gender equity.

Growing Youth Participation

• Flag football and grassroots programs are encouraging young girls to play football, fostering a strong pipeline of talent for the future.
• Organizations like NFL FLAG and initiatives by state high school associations are creating opportunities for girls to compete at younger ages.

Increased Investment and Sponsorship

• As the visibility of women in football grows, brands and organizations are recognizing the commercial potential of supporting women’s leagues, players, and initiatives.
• More investment in coaching programs, officiating opportunities, and professional leagues will create sustainable growth for women’s football.

Representation Matters

• Continued representation of women in coaching, refereeing, and leadership roles will inspire future generations to pursue careers in football.
• The success of figures like Jen Welter, Sarah Thomas, and Katie Sowers proves that opportunities are expanding for women to thrive in all aspects of the sport.

Women Are Changing the Game

The growing influence of women in American football is transforming the sport in unprecedented ways. From pioneering coaches and referees to competitive players in tackle and flag football leagues, women are breaking barriers, redefining norms, and inspiring the next generation.

While challenges remain, the progress made is undeniable. With continued investment, media coverage, and grassroots participation, the future of women in football is poised for even greater success.

Suggested Resources:

1. Women’s Football Alliance
2. NFL FLAG Program for Girls
3. Jen Welter’s Story
4. Sarah Thomas – First Female NFL Official
5. Born to Play Documentary