The San Francisco 49ers Foundation has appointed Hall of Famer Steve Young as the Honorary Captain for its Girls Flag Football initiative. This announcement coincides with the launch of the program “Football Is Made for Girls,” which aims to promote girls’ participation in flag football from youth to high school levels.
Initiative Goals and Impact
In collaboration with the Forever Young Foundation, this initiative seeks to create equitable opportunities for girls in the sport. Young expressed his passion for girls’ flag football, noting how coaching his daughters changed his perspective on the game. He indicated that through this initiative, they will share the joy of football with many more girls.
Ambassador Role of Steve Young
As Honorary Captain, Young will serve as a leading ambassador, working closely with the 49ers Foundation. His role includes enhancing programs that promote flag football at various levels:
- Expanding school-based flag programs
- Supporting competitive play in high schools
- Creating mentorship opportunities for players and coaches
Global Expansion of Girls Flag Football
The initiative aims to elevate the profile of girls’ flag football globally, with plans for international clinics and school programs extending to the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and Mexico. This growth comes as girls’ flag football is recognized as one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States.
Statistics and Growth
In California, high school participation in girls’ flag football has surged by over 80% since it was designated a varsity sport in 2023. Additionally, flag football will make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, further highlighting the sport’s increasing popularity.
Commitment to Female Athletes
The 49ers Foundation has actively supported female athletes by offering skills-based training and mentorship opportunities. Highlights include:
- Hosting seven clinics with more than 1,000 high school girls participating
- Launching “Next Up,” a mini-camp to inspire middle school girls to engage in both STEAM fields and flag football
Statements from 49ers Leaders
Jenna York, 49ers Co-Owner and Chief Impact Officer, expressed excitement about the partnership with Young and the Forever Young Foundation, emphasizing their shared mission to empower girls through sports. Mara York, also Co-Owner and Chief Impact Officer, highlighted Young’s personal connection to the sport as a key asset in promoting girls’ flag football.
For more details, please visit El-Balad’s relevant pages. The 49ers Foundation has been dedicated for over 30 years to using football as a tool for youth education and empowerment.
About the Organizations
49ers Foundation
Founded over 30 years ago, the 49ers Foundation focuses on educating and empowering youth in the Bay Area through community-focused strategies. They have invested over $70 million in support of underserved communities.
Forever Young Foundation
Established in 1993 by Steve Young, the Forever Young Foundation aims to provide resources for children facing challenges, offering academic, athletic, and therapeutic opportunities.
