Joseph J. Foy, Ph.D. President | Benedictine University

Benedictine University will compete against Rockford University in the inaugural collegiate women's flag football game for Illinois, set to take place at the Chicago Bears' Walter Payton Center. Scheduled for Saturday, March 8, at 6:15 p.m., this event marks a significant milestone in the expansion of women's athletics within the state.

"We are so proud to have Benedictine University take part in such a groundbreaking moment. This event will be a special moment for all of us at the University in helping foster the growth of women’s athletics," said representatives from BenU.

The Illinois High School Association approved Girls Flag Football as an official sport in 2024. In response to rising interest, Benedictine University became one of the first institutions in Illinois to offer Women's Flag Football as a varsity sport. The sport's inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games further underscores its growing popularity.

Leading Benedictine University's team is Head Coach Caroline Schwartz, who brings valuable experience from her tenure at Lane Tech. There, she was instrumental in forming and leading their first Girls' Flag Football Team to victory at both city and state levels.

"Being part of the first-ever college women’s flag football game in Illinois is a monumental moment," Schwartz expressed. "This is about breaking down barriers, showing that women belong on the field, and demonstrating our knowledge and skill in a sport often dominated by men."

Coach Schwartz emphasized the importance of support from organizations like the Chicago Bears: "The support from organizations like the Chicago Bears makes this even more meaningful, as it shows that the future of women’s flag football is not just a dream—it’s becoming a reality."

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