On July 17, 2025, the NFL FLAG Championships kicked off at ForeverLawn Park in Hall of Fame Village, and young athletes took the field looking sharper and more confident than ever. This year, all participating teams—including both boys’ and girls’ squads—received new uniforms from Nike and stylish caps from New Era. The upgrades extend beyond apparel: players also used redesigned Wilson and Franklin footballs featuring softer cores and vibrant graphics tailored for flag gameplay.
The NFL FLAG Championships, now in its second year, bring together roughly 300 regional champion teams representing all 32 NFL clubs, along with eight international squads from countries such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, Great Britain, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Over the next four days, these talented young athletes will compete across 12 divisions—from 14-and-under co-ed teams to high school girls—culminating on July 20 with national finals televised live across ESPN, ABC, Disney platforms, NFL+, and more.
Nike’s introduction to the event marks a significant milestone. As part of the NFL’s extended 10-year agreement with the brand to enhance global participation, Nike provided on-field uniforms designed specifically for flag football, along with performance apparel. New Era supplied caps, including a “Champions” version awarded immediately after each game, boosting a sense of achievement and team pride on the sidelines. Complementing the gear, Wilson and Franklin returned as official football and flag providers, offering youth-friendly designs with softer cores to reduce impact and increase control during fast-paced play.
The gear enhancements reflect more than just cosmetic upgrades; they signal the NFL’s deeper commitment to nurturing flag football as a key pathway to the sport’s future. Steamrolling beyond traditional formality, the event embodies flag football’s inclusivity and accessibility—critical to its anticipated debut as an Olympic event at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Stephanie Kwok, NFL vice president and head of Flag Football, lauded the tournament’s evolution: “We are thrilled to bring the NFL Flag Championships presented by Toyota back to Canton for the second consecutive year. Flag is inclusive and accessible for all, and we are excited to see the competition across all age groups at the 2025 NFL Flag Championships”. Her remarks highlight the sense of growth, unity, and global exchange embedded within the event.
Participants and their families felt the difference immediately. Players noted that the lightweight Nike uniforms offered improved breathability and freedom of movement, while New Era caps added both style and sun protection. Coaches praised the equipment upgrades, observing a marked boost in morale and energy on the field. One coach commented, “These uniforms look and feel professional. The kids play bigger when they feel like pros.”
The upgraded gear also reinforces safety and comfort during competition. Wilson and Franklin footballs, specifically created for flag games, offer softer cores that reduce force upon impact—helping younger players build confidence through better ball handling without sacrificing comfort.
Moreover, the partnership between Nike, New Era, Wilson, and Franklin spotlights the momentum behind flag football’s meteoric rise. With more than 20 million participants across 100+ countries, the sport is already the fastest-growing variant of football, particularly among girls and youth players. The 2025 NFL Flag tournament’s expanded sponsorship supports this growth with resources and visibility.
The NFL’s media partners are amplifying that growth. The four-day championships feature approximately 33 hours of live television and digital coverage on ESPN, ABC, Disney channels, NFL+, and other platforms. Viewers can tune in to 15 girls high school games, 15 boys 14U games, and three international matches. This exposure serves to heighten athletic prestige and encourage broader participation in youth flag leagues.
A Canadian coach working with an 11-year-old girls’ team expressed her excitement: “Today, these girls get to play on a national stage, dressed in gear that rivals the pros. It’s not just a game—it’s a statement that they belong in football.” Such sentiments resonate across the tournament venue, reinforcing that flag football is not second-tier—it’s a vibrant, escalating community unto itself.
The championships pair athletic competition with a full NFL Experience festival. Families and fans can explore interactive zones showcasing the Vince Lombardi Trophy, gaming lounges, team giveaways, and sponsor activations from Toyota, Gatorade, Oakley, and others—turning the event into a family-oriented celebration of athleticism and community.
The NFL is watching closely. As flag football prepares for its Olympic debut, feedback from this tournament—and high-quality gear and gear partnerships—are providing valuable insight for equipment standards, youth engagement, and scaling tournaments globally. RCX Sports CEO Izell Reese commented, “It’s where the nation’s top youth athletes unite to compete at the highest level… This year’s event reflects the growing support for the sport—with more partners, greater visibility, and expanded global reach”.
Back on the field in Canton, upgraded uniforms and caps have helped level the psychological playing field. When these players wear polished Nike gear and step onto Lifetime Turf with pro-prestige, their potential shines brighter. It’s more than apparel—it’s empowerment, pride, and a resounding affirmation that youth flag football is here to play—and grow.
