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Flag football will debut as an official sport at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The fact that “football” is actually “American Football” and will be introduced on American soil is pretty sweet.
The rules of the sport are different than those followed in the NFL. Each team will feature 10 players total, as five players from each team take the field at a time. Even game time is different in that they will play two 20-minute halves.
Flag football is a sport that has been played in recreational associations, church leagues, and intramural programs. It is also becoming a varsity sport in a growing number of high schools as a prominent game for girls without all the violence and excessive contact.
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And now, it is headed to the Olympics.
But there was concern that NFL players would be excluded. Which is justified. Numerous players have clauses stipulated in their contracts that they cannot ride motorcycles, play basketball, participate in surfing, or enter volleyball tournaments. The reasons are related to the possibility of athletes becoming injured.
On Tuesday, the NFL owners passed a resolution at the Spring League Meeting that would allow its league players to participate in flag football in the 2028 Olympics.
There are some restrictions, however. Although the measure passed 32-0, there is a stipulation that only one player from each NFL team will be allowed to play. In addition, if any club has an international player on their roster, that athlete would be allowed to participate on their country’s team.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell stated:
“I think this news represents a great opportunity for the sport, for the NFL. It’s truly the next step in making NFL football and football a global sport for men and women of all ages and all opportunities across the globe. We think that’s the right thing to do, and this is a big step in accomplishing that.”
With the owner’s blessings, the league has forever advertised participation in flag football over television commercials. It is only natural for its players to become a part of history.
The NFL has worked tirelessly to bring American Football to the world. The Olympics are a huge stage to present the game to those who may not have seen it or understand the rules. If the league wants to grow the game internationally, it only makes sense to use NFL players instead of amateurs who are already playing in leagues across the country.
Few spectators who aren’t familiar with the game will not want to watch a bunch of no-names. But viewing NFL stars is a different matter. It also gives the NFL an opportunity to identify its individual teams and showcase logos. NFL players are a real draw, especially outside of the confines of Americans who are already familiar with the league teams and players.
It may not be contact American Football, but it is still the...
