Florham Park – November 06, 2026 -- The New York Jets and the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation are expanding the Jets ECAC Women's Flag Football League from 15 schools in 2026 to 29 schools in 2027, backed by a new $500,000 commitment from the Foundation.
Foundation lifts total league funding to $1.5 million
The new grant follows the Foundation's $1 million founding grant in 2025. Its total support for the league now stands at $1.5 million.
ECAC Commissioner Dan Coonan said the expansion will let twice as many programs and young women compete. "The talent and desire has always been there," he said, adding that athletes lacked only the opportunity. He said the conference is preparing for Year Two of the league.
Marymount University collects championship rings at MetLife Stadium
The announcement followed an on-field ceremony during the Jets-Dolphins game at MetLife Stadium. Marymount University, the 2026 ECAC Women's Flag Football champion, was recognized and presented with championship rings.
The champions also hoisted "The Betty," a trophy named for Betty Wold Johnson. Ken Farber, Executive Director of the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation, said the award reflects her emphasis on service, community and lasting impact.
Collegiate pathway extends across the ECAC footprint
The Jets and the Foundation say the added funding will bring more schools and student-athletes into the league and help institutions build sustainable programs across the ECAC footprint. The ECAC has more than 200 member schools across NCAA Divisions I, II and III.
The Jets and the Foundation created the league in 2025 to accelerate the growth of female flag football at the collegiate level. The 2027 field of 29 schools is its first expansion.