She Plays Nation

Elayna opens up about growing up in a deeply athletic family, overcoming a major injury, and discovering a new path in flag football at Grand Canyon University.She reflects on how coaching, film study, and a strong academic mindset shaped her game and her future, both on and off the field. From standout moments at the Fiesta Bowl to her coaching work at Shadow Ridge High School, Elayna dives into leadership, resilience, and what it means to help grow the sport for the next generation of girls.This conversation is packed with real advice for student‑athletes balancing sports, school, and life — along with powerful insights on hard work, staying out of your own box, and building a legacy through flag football.

Simone Fitzer is proof of how fast flag football is rising. Her journey from competitive dance to college and national‑team flag football shows how agility, stamina, and body control can transform an athlete into a championship‑level playmaker. In this episode, Simone opens up about her national team experiences, the intense training that prepares her for big moments, and her vision for the sport as it grows at the D1 level. She shares how she’s helping younger girls find their confidence in the game, breaking stereotypes, and becoming part of a movement redefining women’s sports. Perfect for athletes, coaches, and fans, this conversation highlights a true pioneer whose passion and leadership are shaping the future of women’s flag football.

Izzy Pap is one of Arizona’s most influential flag football quarterbacks and a proud ASU commit who has helped push the sport forward through her leadership, talent, and passion for growing the game. In this episode, she talks about her journey from playing flag football at a young age to becoming a record-setting quarterback, the role her family and coaches have played in her development, and what it means to be a pioneer for women’s flag football in Arizona. She also shares her thoughts on the rapid growth of the sport, the importance of mentorship, the future of scholarships and NCAA opportunities, and why she wants to be remembered for the impact she made on younger girls just as much as what she did on the field.

Alyssa Ramos — trailblazer, competitor, and flag football pioneer. She sparked a movement at Doherty High School by launching the school’s first girls flag football team, rallying support and proving what’s possible when one athlete decides to lead. Her journey continued at the collegiate level, where she grew through the challenges of a brand‑new program, learned multiple positions, and pushed herself to evolve as both a player and a person. Now entering the transfer portal to chase D1 competition, Alyssa is aiming for the highest stage — national play and the future of Olympic flag football. Her story is a powerful look at ambition, resilience, and the rising era of women’s flag football.

Allison Rodriquez didn’t come up through youth leagues — she jumped straight into an adult tackle football program, earning her respect the hard way and proving she could hold her own from day one. In this episode, she breaks down how that experience shaped her toughness, confidence, and competitive edge, and how it set the foundation for her to dominate on the flag football field as one of the sport’s most dynamic athletes.Allison shares the inside story of her journey with the Fiesta Bowl, how that platform elevated her visibility, and the moments that pushed her to grow as both a player and a leader. She also opens up about her next chapter with Unleashed Flag, why the move matters, and what she hopes to build as the sport continues to expand nationally.From stepping into pads against adults to becoming a force in women’s flag football, Allison talks about the lessons, the breakthroughs, and what’s coming next as she steps into a new era of her career.

Amaya “Chimi” Marino is redefining what’s possible for girls in football. From her first snap at seven years old to dropping six touchdowns in a state championship, her rise is powered by relentless work, family support, and a mindset built for breaking barriers. In this episode, we dive into the training, discipline, and leadership that shaped her journey — from youth tackle to becoming one of the first female quarterbacks at a major high school. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or fan of the game, Maya’s story shows why the next generation is pushing football forward — faster and louder than ever.

Flag football deserves more spotlight in schools across the country! As Kevin Dickens points out, many decision-makers overlook women’s sports because of profit concerns. But with the game growing exponentially, especially for young women, it’s about time we prioritize development from middle school to college. Flag football isn’t just a recreational activity—it's a pathway for scholarships, confidence, and future careers. The key? Proper sanctioning, structured competitions, and grassroots growth before big money moves. Worth thinking about: Are we ready to make flag official at every high school? Or are we still waiting for the right moment? Let’s start the conversation. What’s your take on flag becoming a varsity sport? #ShePlaysNation #UnleashedFlag #FlagFootballFuture #WomenInSports #HighSchoolSports #GrassrootsGrowth #PlayToWin

Madison Heaney, a talented female flag football player, shares her journey into the sport, her achievements, challenges, and aspirations. She emphasizes the importance of hard work, positivity, and the impact of other sports on her football skills. Madison's dedication to academics and sports is evident, and she looks forward to inspiring and coaching younger players in the future.TakeawaysMadison's journey from a novice to a skilled flag football player showcases the power of perseverance and dedication.The influence of other sports on Madison's football skills highlights the value of cross-training and diverse athletic experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction to She Plays Nation06:20 Personal Aspirations and Ambitions11:24 Vision for the Future of Women's Football

Join us as Unna Tormanen shares her inspiring journey from Finland to the U.S., where she’s making waves in flag football. Discover how she overcame barriers to become a rising star, driven by her Olympic dreams and passion for the sport. Unna talks about her early start in football, the challenges of adapting to the fast-paced American game, and the sisterhood she found with her teammates. Her story is a testament to resilience and belief, inspiring young girls to break barriers in sports. Perfect for sports fans and advocates of female empowerment, this episode highlights Unna’s vision for the future of women’s football and her message that “there are no limits if you believe in yourself.” Don’t miss this chance to be inspired by a young athlete who’s not just playing the game but changing it.

Jasmine Dunn’s journey in flag football started her senior year at Brookwood High School, where she quickly found her passion for the game. She continued developing her skills with OuttaW before returning home to Alabama State University, where she grew into a standout athlete and leader.In 2026, Jasmine competed in the first-ever Fiesta Bowl Flag Football Classic — a historic moment that showcased how far the sport has come and how far she’s come with it.Her message to every girl dreaming of playing at the next level is simple: stay ready, stay hungry, and believe in your path — no matter when it starts.