The excitement was palpable on Saturday, June 21, 2025, as the inaugural YMCAKC x OttawaU Female Flag Nationals took place at the picturesque Ottawa University campus in Ottawa, Kansas. This groundbreaking event brought together 14 teams and more than 150 players and coaches from across the region, marking a significant milestone in the growth of female flag football, a sport rapidly gaining recognition as a future high school and Olympic sport.
The event kicked off on Friday, June 20, with early registration and a campus visit, giving participants a chance to familiarize themselves with Ottawa University’s beautiful grounds. Later that afternoon, players participated in practice drills guided by Ottawa University coaches on the Advent Field, setting the stage for an action-packed Saturday.
Saturday’s schedule was filled with intense pool play. The afternoon featured single-elimination rounds that kept spectators on the edge of their seats as teams battled for a spot in the championship game.
14U Champions
The highlight of the event was the victorious KC Heat, a talented 14-and-under team, who claimed the first-place trophy and received championship rings to beat the KC Shockers 14U team 18-0.
High School Champions
The high school finals featured two KC Shockers teams with a final score of 33-0. The winning team showed off their championship rings after the game.
Tournament MVP
Layla Pohtos of the KC Shockers earned the MVP award. Layla, a dedicated player from St. Charles, MO, who travels every weekend from the St. Louis area to compete with the KC Shockers, received a prestigious flag football scholarship to Ottawa University for flag football — a testament to her skill and passion for the sport. Ottawa University Assistant Flag Football Coach Katie Sowers congratulated Pohtos after the game and presented a $25,000 scholarship check.
The Future is Bright
Special thanks to all participating teams, coaches and families for making this tournament such a memorable event.
This historic tournament and partnership not only celebrates the incredible athleticism of female flag football players but also advocates for its recognition as a sport of the future. We look forward to seeing this momentum grow and to hosting many more national tournaments.
