Old Westbury College Launches Women's Flag Football Team

Old Westbury College is making strides in women's sports with the introduction of a flag football team.

The Nassau County institution is preparing for its first season, which will commence at the club level in 2026, before advancing to varsity status the following year. A grassroots initiative is underway to recruit players for this new team.

“We’re reaching out to accepted students who may have prior experience in flag football,” said Lenore Walsh, the director of athletics. “We want to build a strong foundation for our team.”

Since the announcement in April, excitement has been palpable on campus. Walsh noted that during the accepted students’ day, many attendees expressed enthusiasm about the new program, which is set to compete in the Skyline Conference.

While a head coach has yet to be appointed, Walsh emphasized the importance of recruiting efforts, particularly given the sport's growing popularity in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

“Flag football is thriving among high schools and middle schools here on Long Island,” she remarked, highlighting programs from Lindenhurst, Plainview-Old Bethpage, and Port Washington as key areas of interest.

The initial tryouts for the team are scheduled for this fall, with additional sessions planned for the spring semester. Walsh pointed out that local players will have ample walk-on opportunities.

“You don’t have to be a recruited student-athlete to join us,” she explained. “Sometimes, you can discover hidden talent.”

In other local news, the Islanders are gearing up for a draft party at UBS Arena this Friday night. Fans can expect to see new general manager Mathieu Darche addressing the crowd at 5:30 p.m., alongside players like Ryan Pulock and Casey Cizikas.

Notable alumni such as John Tonelli and Butch Goring will also be present, adding to the event's allure. The festivities will include attractions like a Ferris wheel and human jousting.

Admission is free for season ticket holders, while general admission costs $5, with proceeds benefiting the Islanders Children’s Foundation.

Additionally, Long Island will host its annual “Run Around the Lake” event on Saturday morning, honoring fallen Navy SEAL Michael Murphy. The event kicks off at Lake Ronkonkoma, where Murphy once served as a lifeguard.

The schedule includes a half-marathon at 7 a.m., followed by an 8:30 a.m. fun run and a 9 a.m. four-mile race. Registration fees vary, and parking is available at Easton Street & Railroad Avenue in Ronkonkoma.