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TEMPE – A night that was years in the making came to a head when Arizona State University’s women’s flag football club made its collegiate debut Jan. 31.
For Sierra and Sophia Smith, game day also marked a culmination of their hard work. The twin sisters co-founded and co-captain the ASU club, and despite the Sun Devils’ 24-6 loss to Grand Canyon University, the two had plenty of reason to celebrate.
The sisters, both sophomores, began their flag football journey at Hamilton High School and then continued with Club HBHF Arizona. They first announced the ASU club in February 2024 on the team’s Instagram page. In September, they held tryouts and found their current 25-player roster.
The teams brought out a huge crowd at Dorsey Turf Field in Tempe, and it was only fitting that Sierra caught the first and only touchdown for the Sun Devils.
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“That was like the best moment ever, obviously, like starting the team and being able to make the first inaugural touchdown, just insane, so I was very happy about that,” Sierra said.
Sierra said some athletes were competing in their first flag football game, cushioning some of the sting from the club’s opening loss. The Sun Devils also hope to fortify what could be a fierce women’s flag football rivalry with GCU.
Sierra said she isn’t sure what is next for the team, but they’re trying to put together a schedule. She said it’s difficult with limited clubs to play against, but their regular practice schedule will continue.
The crowd wasn’t only significant for ASU, but GCU, as well. It was the first game between the teams, the largest Division I flag football clubs in the state.
“Honestly, it’s amazing,” GCU co-captain Xiamara Drummer said. “I just love to see how flag football is emerging and just spreading around, and I’m hoping that this is a statement so that everyone, you know, all the D-1 schools can start adding flag to their programs.”