TISHOMINGO — Murray State College has received a grant from the NJCAA Foundation to help launch Oklahoma’s first collegiate flag football program at a public college.
“The NJCAA Foundation is passionate about the value that women’s flag football brings to an institution’s overall growth, the student-athlete experience and equality across playing fields,” stated Andrew Givens, NJCAA Foundation Executive Director. “This is an opportunity for women of the association to compete
S10 at the highest level, and we are fortunate to work hand-in-hand with NFL FLAG and RCX Sports during this exciting time.”
Women’s flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country and will make its historic Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, California. Murray State College will foster the sport’s growth by creating new opportunities for student- athletes in Oklahoma and the surrounding region.
“RCX is dedicated to creating opportunities for all athletes to play and so that every child can gain important life skills only learned through sports,” said Izell Reese, RCX Sports CEO and NFL FLAG Executive Director. “Through NJCAA women’s flag football, young women will not only be able to compete, but they’ll also earn a valuable education that will set them up for success after college.”
Travis Burdine is Murray State’s first flag football head coach, bringing more than 15 years of coaching and student-athlete development experience to Ardmore. Most recently, he served as Defensive Coordinator at Mount St. Mary’s High School in Oklahoma City, while also working in athletic performance and fitness leadership roles.
“We are excited and honored to launch the first collegiate flag football program at a public institution in Oklahoma,” said Coach Burdine. “This is a historic moment for the institution, and we intend to build on the championship culture that has been established at Murray State.”
“The NJCAA expanding NFL Flag opportunities for female student-athletes at member institutions demonstrates clearly that football is for all,” said Troy Vincent, Sr., Executive Vice President of NFL Football Operations. “The values and the fun and competitive environment of football can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone who wishes to participate.
It is exciting to see junior colleges offer NFL FLAG as a varsity sport to female athletes.
Burdine has begun recruiting and building the foundation for the program’s inaugural roster ahead of the Aggies’ first season in Spring 2027. The College is deeply grateful for the support of the NJCAA Foundation, NFL FLAG and Reigning Champs Experiences (RCX).
“We are excited to continue the momentum of activity program success and launch Murray State College’s inaugural flag football program in partnership with the NJCAA Foundation,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, Murray State College President. “This investment creates new opportunities for student-athletes while continuing to enhance the Aggie experience on our campuses, and we are grateful for their support.”