NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State University Athletics officially introduced women's flag football as the department's newest sponsored sport during a press conference on Thursday afternoon in the President's Suite at William "Dick" Price Stadium.
The event marked a historic moment for Norfolk State Athletics as the university announced the addition of one of the nation's fastest-growing emerging sports. The program will provide new competitive and educational opportunities for women while expanding the Spartans' varsity athletics offerings.
University President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston, Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Melody Webb, and inaugural head coach Darryl Bullock each delivered remarks during the event, highlighting the significance of the program's launch and the impact it will have on future student-athletes.
"As athletic directors, we are entrusted with something much bigger than wins and losses," said Dr. Melody Webb, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "We are entrusted with creating access and opening doors that previous generations never imagined possible. Women's flag football represents exactly that. The question was never whether flag football would arrive—it was whether Norfolk State would help shape its future. Today, we answer that question with confidence. Yes. The answer is yes."
"Today marks more than the beginning of a new program—it represents the start of a new era," said Darryl Bullock, Norfolk State's Inaugural Head Women's Flag Football Coach. "Women's flag football is experiencing unprecedented growth across the nation, from its inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games to the MEAC's commitment to launching a conference championship in 2027. We are witnessing history unfold before our eyes, and Norfolk State has chosen not only to participate in that history, but to help lead it."
The addition of women's flag football reflects Norfolk State's continued commitment to innovation, growth, and creating meaningful opportunities for student-athletes. The Spartans join the growing national movement surrounding the sport, which continues to gain momentum at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels.
Bullock will lead the development of the program as its first head coach, overseeing recruiting, roster development, and preparation for the team's inaugural season.
Additional details regarding competition schedules, roster information, and conference affiliation will be announced at a later date.
For more information regarding Norfolk State Athletics and the launch of women's flag football, visit NSUSpartans.com.
