The inaugural Flag Football Classic took place in Los Angeles on Saturday, where the US flag football team demonstrated that the skills required for flag football differ significantly from those needed in tackle football. The national team showcased their talents by decisively defeating two teams composed of NFL players.
This event, initially planned for Riyadh but relocated due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, aimed to promote flag football, which is set to debut in the Olympics during the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. Tom Brady, the legendary seven-time Super Bowl champion who retired from the NFL three years ago, led the Founders FFC. The crowd erupted when he connected with former teammate Rob Gronkowski for a two-point conversion in their first match. However, Brady, along with other NFL stars like Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, found themselves outmatched by a determined Team USA and their quarterback Darrell Doucette.
Team USA”s superior speed and agility allowed them to dominate offensively, winning both of their round-robin games before defeating the Joe Burrow-led Wildcats FCC 24-14 in a highly competitive final. Brady acknowledged the differences in strategy, stating, “In terms of strategy, we”re probably way behind. But I thought it was a fun experience and experiment to see where everyone measured up. I”m really happy for the US flag team; they did a great job. They have a lot of talented, humble kids.”
Flag Football”s Olympic Future
The Flag Football Classic served as a preparatory event for the upcoming LA Games, where flag football will officially be part of the Olympic program at BMO Stadium in Exposition Park. The NFL views flag football as an opportunity to engage women, children, and older individuals in a non-contact version of the sport, where players wear flags attached to their waists instead of being tackled.
While NFL players will have the chance to compete for a place on the US Olympic flag football team, Saturday”s matches highlighted that flag football requires distinct skills, particularly in quickness and evasion. Although Brady does not plan to return from retirement for the Olympics, he emphasized the merit-based selection process, saying, “There”s going to be a selection process and the best people will play. Team sports are a meritocracy. Whoever is the best and gives the team the best opportunity ultimately to win, that”s who should be out there.”
Team USA”s Triumph
Jorge Cascudo, head coach of Team USA, remarked on the advantage of familiarity that flag football players had over the NFL players, saying, “We”ve got to enjoy this moment and take advantage of it because once they get to know the game and the skills, then we”re in trouble.” He shared a laugh with reporters, celebrating their current status as champions.
Despite the excitement, the event faced challenges, including a last-minute venue change and a heat wave impacting attendance, leading to numerous empty seats in the 22,000-capacity BMO Stadium, home to MLS”s LAFC and NWSL”s Angel City.
