University of Oregon students have taken a historic step for women’s athletics by fielding the school’s first women’s club flag football team. The inaugural roster of 22 players, plus eight alternates, reported to the turf fields behind Hayward Field on Nov. 2 to begin building the program from the ground up.
Year‑long effort led by a student champion
Club president and senior Zoey Ceman devoted the past twelve months to turning a vision into reality. Ceman, who grew up playing flag football in Southern California, spent countless hours meeting with UO club‑sports officials, holding Zoom calls with NFL personnel, and scouting potential opponents. Her persistence paid off when the Oregon School Activities Association sanctioned flag football on Oct. 12, creating a statewide framework for the sport.
“It was a scavenger hunt, to say the least,” Ceman said of the process. “I reached out to former teammates, contacts at Nike, and anyone who could help us find sponsors and opponents.”
Coaching staff assembled from the local community
Head coach Scott Feldman, who also coaches at North Eugene High School, recruited a volunteer coaching crew after a thorough search. Feldman’s offensive coordinator, Chris Rohaley, joined the effort, bringing experience from starting a flag football program at Sheldon College. “Women tend to learn a lot quicker in high school and early college years than men,” Feldman noted, emphasizing the need to adapt practice plans to the athletes’ strengths.
Both coaches highlighted the athleticism of the players. “When I go to a practice, I have a plan and we’re still left with time,” Feldman said, describing the fast‑paced sessions designed to develop an aggressive defense and a dynamic offense.
First practice and future goals
The first practice focused on positioning, fundamentals and team chemistry. Players quickly discovered how their diverse athletic backgrounds could translate to the flag football field. “It’s just competition, and it’s fun,” Ceman said. “Football lets you show personality—celebrations, huddles, conversations—something I love.”
Looking ahead, the Ducks are slated to make their competitive debut at a January tournament in Boise, followed by participation in a national women’s club flag football league organized by the National Intramural‑Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). The league features 88 teams across ten regional divisions, and Oregon is scheduled for eight league games, including trips to Sacramento and Reno.
Feldman envisions the program growing to varsity status within two years, potentially offering scholarships and competing at the NCAA level. “Our goal is to build a sustainable program that can stand the test of time,” he said.
Community impact and support
The launch of the women’s club flag football team adds to Eugene’s vibrant sports culture and provides new opportunities for female athletes at the university. Local businesses and volunteers have already stepped forward to support the team, reflecting a broader community commitment to expanding women’s sports in the Pacific Northwest.
As the Ducks continue to develop their schedule and seek additional opponents, Ceman remains optimistic. “I’ve been working on this since last fall, and seeing it come full circle is incredibly rewarding,” she said. The team’s progress will be closely watched by students, alumni and local fans eager to see Oregon establish a strong presence in women’s flag football.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
