Fynn makes her case for starting quarterback as HPU prepares to launch Hawai'i's first women's flag football program this fall.
HPU is launching women’s flag football this fall, becoming the first university in Hawaiʻi to offer the popular sport at the collegiate level. The addition makes flag football the 11th women’s sport in HPU’s NCAA Division II program, which also sponsors six men’s sports and co-ed cheer.
Women’s flag football was added to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program in January 2026, a designation that creates a pathway toward NCAA championship status. It is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. at the youth, high school and collegiate levels, and it will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.
“This is a great day for HPU and for women’s athletics in Hawaiʻi,” said HPU Executive Director of Athletics Debbie Snell, Ed.D. “Flag football expands opportunities for our female student-athletes and adds even more energy and passion to campus life. We’re very proud to be the first university in the state to offer it at the collegiate level.”
Flag football is firmly established in Hawaiʻi high school athletics, with 12 Division I and 12 Division II schools sponsoring the sport.
The game is fast and contact-free. Two teams of seven play on an 80-yard by 40-yard field with two 10-yard end zones. Defenders pull a ball carrier’s flag instead of tackling. Touchdowns are worth six points, with a one- or two-point conversion option. There is no hitting, blocking or pushing, which makes the sport quick, high-scoring and easy to follow.
HPU will compete in the Pacific West Conference, pending scheduling, with additional games possible against post-high-school leagues, O'ahu club teams and PacWest affiliate members. Additional program details will be announced as they are finalized.
HPU will welcome its first flag football student-athletes this fall, with the team practicing on the field adjacent to Shark Tank. An announcement on the program’s first head coach is forthcoming.
Prospective student-athletes are encouraged to apply to HPU as soon as possible and to identify themselves to admissions as flag football recruits. For more information, email athletics@hpu.edu or leave a voicemail for Snell at (808) 544-0209.
Visit www.hpusharks.com for more on Sharks Athletics.
