Fullerton, CA – Hope International University (HIU) is thrilled to announce the addition of Women's Flag Football to its athletics program, with competition set to begin in the Spring 2026 season. This exciting new initiative demonstrates HIU's commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for female student-athletes and fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the field.
The launch of Women's Flag Football aligns with the growing popularity of the sport across the nation. Recognized as an emerging sport by the NAIA, Women's Flag Football has seen rapid growth, offering athletes the chance to showcase their skills in a fast-paced, competitive environment. HIU is proud to join the movement, providing a platform for athletes to excel while emphasizing Christ-centered character development, teamwork, and academic success.
"We are excited to be at the forefront of this movement by bringing Women's Flag Football to Hope International University," said
Chris Morrison, HIU's Athletic Director. "This new program reflects our commitment to supporting female student-athletes and creating opportunities for them to thrive athletically, academically, and spiritually. We can't wait to see how this program grows and impacts our campus community."
To lead this pioneering program, HIU is proud to welcome Felipe Aguilar as the Head Coach of the Women's Flag Football team. Aguilar brings a wealth of coaching experience and a proven track record of success. Most recently, he served as the Head Coach for Girls' Flag Football at Warren High School, where he managed a two-level football program, implemented academic support initiatives, and developed strength and conditioning programs for approximately 60 athletes. His efforts also included heightening youth football awareness in the community and fostering a culture of excellence.
Aguilar's coaching career includes roles such as Offensive Coordinator at Rowland High School and Head Football Coach at Los Altos High School, where he supervised three levels of football, developed off-season training programs, and emphasized both athletic and academic success. His use of modern tools like Hudl for video analysis and his expertise in strategy, game planning, and player development will be invaluable as HIU's program takes shape.
Recruitment for the inaugural roster is underway, and prospective student-athletes are encouraged to contact the athletics department to learn more about this exciting opportunity.
The addition of Women's Flag Football reinforces HIU's ongoing efforts to diversify its athletic offerings and attract talented student-athletes to its vibrant campus. With a strong tradition of athletic success and a focus on holistic development, HIU is poised to make an immediate impact in the world of Women's Flag Football.
For more information about the Women's Flag Football program at Hope International University, please contact
Chris Morrison at (714) 879-3901 Ext 5400 or cmorrison@hiu.edu.
About Hope International University:
Founded in 1928, Hope International University is a private Christian university located in Fullerton, California. HIU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to empower students to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. With a focus on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community engagement, HIU prepares students to lead lives of service and significance.
