News & Stories

THE INSTITUTE FOR SPORT & SOCIAL JUSTICE LAUNCHES FLAG FOOTBALL PROGRAM IN BRAZIL

August 29, 2024

A groundbreaking two-part event featuring a sports development summit for coaches and an elite skills clinic for local girls 

São Paulo, Brazil – The Institute for Sport and Social Justice, in partnership with Nossa Arena, the Brazilian National Women’s Flag Football team, and the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Brazil, is proud to announce the launch of FLAG! Future Leaders, Active Girls—a dynamic new program designed to inspire and empower the next generation of female athletes in Brazil. As flag football continues to surge in popularity, particularly as a newly added event for the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics, this initiative is poised to help pave the way for future leaders within the sport.

FLAG! draws its inspiration from the historic initiative by the NFL to bring American football to São Paulo, Brazil, for the first time. With the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers set to make history with their debut in South America, this program marks the beginning of a new era in futebol – one that includes a strong focus on gender equity and inclusion.

“With the NFL’s expansion into South America, we recognized a unique opportunity to collaborate with world-class organizations making a significant impact in São Paulo,” said Dr. Ashleigh Huffman, Vice President of Global Engagement for The Institute. “This opportunity is more than just a game; it’s a catalyst for change. This initiative builds bridges between nations, fosters mutual understanding, and empowers girls to step into leadership roles. By partnering with Nossa Arena, the first woman-owned stadium in Latin America, and the U.S. Consulate, we are redefining what’s possible and creating lasting legacies in both sports and society.”

Event Overview:

1. Sports for Development Summit
   Hosted at Nossa Arena, this summit will gather coaches and sports administrators for an in-depth exploration of mental health and leadership development. Featuring insights from former professional athletes and leadership experts, the summit will provide attendees with the tools and knowledge to foster inclusive and equitable environments within their teams and communities.
   
2. Elite Skills Clinic
   The second half of the day will focus on empowering girls aged 12-16 through an elite skills clinic. Participants will receive hands-on training from professional athletes, combined with discussions on mental health and personal development. This clinic is designed to equip young girls with both the athletic and life skills needed to succeed on and off the field.

FLAG! will take place on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Nossa Arena. To learn more about The Institute’s work and partnerships, visit www.sportandsocialjustice.org. If you want to bring FLAG! to your city, please contact The Institute’s Vice President of Global Engagement, Ashleigh Huffman at [email protected]. 

Contact Information 
Brittany Clay, Director for Communications – [email protected]