How and why the New York Giants partnered with Section 1 flag football

The players were in awe as they stepped onto the field at Quest Diagnostics Training Center, greeted by New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston. There was an understanding of how meaningful it was for them to be there and, even more so, an appreciation of everything that brought about that moment. “It was phenomenal, and they were so excited,” Scarsdale flag football coach Thomas Newkirk said of his team’s reaction to visiting the Giants headquarters and being invited onto the practice field.

“It made the girls feel special, and experiences like that let them know that what they’re doing is respected. ” The Giants last June hosted a bevy of title-winning high school teams from throughout the tri-state area as part of its celebration of girls flag football . Tappan Zee and Hendrick Hudson joined Scarsdale there as newly minted Section 1 champions.

The event included a trophy presentation, games and relay races on the field, and a meeting with players and team officials, including Giants owner John Mara. As flag football has grown exponentially, both in participation and popularity, the Giants are among a slew of NFL organizations that have gotten involved with the sport at the burgeoning scholastic level. In New York, the Giants have helped sponsor teams in Section 1 and Section 4, the Binghamton area.

Flag football became a sanctioned varsity sport in this state in 2023, following a trial season in spring 2022. The Giants were among the organizations that contributed at the ground level, offering stipends and partnering with Nike and USA Football to help provide uniforms and equipment for what at the time were startup teams. The Giants have also had current and former players visit Somers High School in Lincolndale each March to offer instructions and help coach at the annual Section 1 Flag Football Jamboree.