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Women's Football Alliance
Women's Football Alliance
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Women’s Football Alliance
Current season, competition or edition:
Current sports event 2025 Women's Football Alliance Season
SportWomen's gridiron football
Founded2009; 16 years ago (2009)
First season2009
No. of teams60 active
CountryUnited States
Most recent
champions
Pro – St. Louis Slam
Div. 2 – Salt Lake Wildcats
Div. 3 – Richmond Black Widows
Flag – Pittsburgh Passion
Most titlesBoston (7 titles)
Official websitewfaprofootball.com

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) is a semi-pro full-contact women's American football league in the United States. Founded in 2009, it is the largest 11-on-11 football league for women in the world, and the longest running active women's football league in the U.S. Since 2016, the league has operated with three competitive levels: Pro, Division 2 and Division 3. The league is owned and operated by Jeff King and Lisa Gibbons King of Exeter, California. Lisa King is also a wide receiver for the WFA's Cali War.[1]

In addition to operating annual national championship seasons in the United States, the league also operates the WFA International program which organizes international competitions for its own Team United and Team World against each other and all-star teams from other nations. The program also supports international player exchanges and provides logistical support to women's tackle football leagues in Central and South America, Europe, and Africa.[2]

League history

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The Women's Football Alliance was established in 2009 and began its inaugural season with 36 teams. Many of the teams were already established teams from other leagues such as Women's Professional Football League, Independent Women's Football League and National Women's Football Association, while others began their inaugural season of play in the WFA.

2009

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The first season of play ended with a championship game, which was played in the rebuilding (post-Katrina) city of New Orleans, Louisiana and was hosted by the New Orleans Blaze. The game was between the St. Louis Slam (American Conference – St. Louis, MO) and the West Michigan Mayhem (National Conference – Kalamazoo, MI). St. Louis became the first WFA National Champions with a final game score of 21–14.[citation needed] Additionally, there was an International Game played between the Aguilas Regias of Monterrey, Mexico and the hosting team, New Orleans Blaze. The Blaze won this game 12–0.[3]: 123 

2010

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The WFA grew in the second year (2010) to have over 40 teams competing for the national championship. The national championship for the 2010 season was accompanied by the first All-American game. The term All-American is used by the WFA to represent the best players at all positions from all WFA teams. The teams were chosen partly based on statistics and partly based on the vote of head coaches. The All-American game was played just before the championship game in Las Vegas, Nevada and was hosted by the Las Vegas Showgirlz. The All-American game was won by the American Conference. The second championship in the WFA would again come down to the last few plays and have a score differential of only four points. The Lone Star Mustangs (American Conference – Dallas/Fort Worth) defeated the Columbus Comets (National Conference – Columbus, Ohio) to become the second National Champions of the WFA by a score of 16–12.

2011

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As the Women's Football Alliance prepared for the 2011 season, they were scheduled to have over 60 teams playing across the United States. They again grew due in part to new teams starting and in part due to established teams moving in from other leagues, most notably the New York Sharks,[4] D.C. Divas,[5] Chicago Force,[6] Dallas Diamonds, and Kansas City Tribe.[7] In the 2011 WFA championship, which was held in Bedford, Texas, the Boston Militia defeated the San Diego Surge 34–19 to claim the title.

2012

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The WFA opened the season with 60 teams. The 2012 WFA National Championship game took place at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, home stadium of the NFL franchise Pittsburgh Steelers; it was the first women's football championship game to be played in an NFL stadium.[8] After losing the title game in the previous season, the San Diego Surge returned to win the 2012 championship 40–36 over the Chicago Force.

2013

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The WFA opened the season with 50 teams. Running back Whitney Zelee (Boston Militia) made headlines in 2013 by becoming the league's first player to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a football season, setting a league record of 2,128 yards.[9] After losing the title game in the previous season, the Chicago Force returned to win the 2013 championship over the Dallas Diamonds 81–34 at Balboa Stadium, San Diego, California.

2014

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The WFA opened the season with 42 teams. The preseason was capped by the inaugural WFA International Bowl, in which the Mexican All-Stars defeated the Austin Outlaws in exhibition. The Boston Militia became the league's first two-time champion in 2014, winning 69–34 in a title rematch with the San Diego Surge at Lane Tech Stadium in Chicago, Illinois. During championship weekend, the league introduced a new mid-major bowl game: the Alliance Bowl. The Seattle Majestics of the American Conference faced the Indy Crash of the National Conference in a contest to "showcase of the depth of quality teams that exist in the Women's Football Alliance."[10] The Indy Crash prevailed 26–12. This season was also notable for the introduction of Kenneth Massey Ratings into the league's playoffs system.

2015

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The WFA opened the season with 40 teams, the fewest since the league was first established in 2009. The preseason concluded with the second WFA International Bowl Game Series, in which the Mexican All-Stars went 1–1, defeating the Tacoma Trauma before falling to the Seattle Majestics. On August 8, 2015, the D.C. Divas defeated the Dallas Elite 30–26 in the WFA National Championship game at Los Angeles (Calif.) Southwest College Stadium. The Central Cal War Angels beat the Atlanta Phoenix 28–8 in the Alliance Bowl, an invitational bowl game also held during championship weekend.

2016

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WFA executives launched a new, tiered league structure consisting of three divisions, similar to that of NCAA Football. The league opened the season with 43 teams (11 in Division 1, 16 in Division 2, and 16 in Division 3). The WFA also announced the W Bowl as their new brand for the WFA National Championship game. With a 28–26 victory over the Dallas Elite, the D.C. Divas won the inaugural W Bowl and their second national championship in as many years. The St. Louis Slam downed the Tampa Bay Inferno 38–7 to claim the Division 2 championship. The Acadiana Zydeco defeated the Richmond Black Widows 20–18 in the Division 3 title game. All three games were played at Joe P. Michaela Stadium in Imperial, Pa.

Allison Cahill of the Boston Renegades reached a new milestone in sports by becoming the first quarterback to attain 100 victories playing exclusively in women's football leagues.[11]

2017

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The league expanded to 65 teams (15 in Division 1, 19 in Division 2, and 31 in Division 3). On July 22, the Dallas Elite claimed the Division 1 National Championship, dubbed W Bowl II, with a 31–21 outcome against the Boston Renegades at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The St. Louis Slam repeated as Division 2 champions after a rematch in the title game against Tampa Bay finished 42–15. The Arkansas Wildcats beat the Orlando Anarchy 42–26 to claim the Division 3 trophy.

2018

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The league opened the season with 67 teams (9 in Division 1, 16 in Division 2, and 39 in Division 3). On July 28, the Boston Renegades won the Division 1 National Championship game 42–18 over the Los Angeles Warriors at Fifth Third Bank Stadium, Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia. The game was broadcast on ESPN3. The New York Sharks claimed the Division 2 title with a 27–21 victory over the Minnesota Vixen. In a rematch of the 2017 Division 3 championship game, the Orlando Anarchy defeated the Arkansas Wildcats 46–0.

2019

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The league opened with 62 teams (6 in Division 1, 18 in Division 2, and 38 in Division 3). The Boston Renegades repeated as league champions, matching the feat first accomplished by the D.C. Divas (2015, 2016). On July 13, Boston beat the Cali War 52–24 at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado. The game was broadcast on ESPN3. The St. Louis Slam won their third Division 2 title in four years by downing the Detroit Dark Angels 34–0. The Orlando Anarchy made their third consecutive trip to the Division 3 championship game but fell to the Nevada Storm 62–45.

2020

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The 2020 season of the Women's Football Alliance was cancelled in its entirety due to health and safety concerns in regards to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.[12] Although regular season games were scheduled, none were played.

The WFA signed deals with Eleven Sports/FTF Next Sports Network to broadcast ten 'WFA Game of the Week' events[13] and eight games from the 2019 season[14] on its cable network, streaming channels and website. They also established partnerships with Secret, Xenith, Wilson, Glazier Clinics, and Florida State University Interdisciplinary Center for Athletic Coaching.

The WFA established the Women's Football Coaching Alliance (WFCA), and the 'WFA Gives Campaign'. The league also witnessed the release of two feature films focused on its players, "Born To Play," directed by Viridiana Lieberman, and "Open Field," directed by Kathy Kuras. "Born To Play" aired nationally on ESPN and internationally on ABC to widespread critical acclaim.[15]

2021

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In February, the WFA announced a five-year agreement with the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company for the league's championship games to be played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium at Hall of Fame Village in Canton, Ohio. The league resumed play after a 2020 season lost to global pandemic. Scheduling challenges and safety concerns necessitated a delayed start (May instead of April) and a shortened season (6 regular season games instead of 8). The 2021 season opened with 49 teams (7 in Division 1, 12 in Division 2, and 30 in Division 3). On July 24, the Boston Renegades collected their third consecutive league title with a 42–26 victory over the Minnesota Vixen. The Nevada Storm defeated the Detroit Dark Angels 42–18 to win the Division 2 title. The Derby City Dynamite claimed the Division 3 crown with a 30–20 victory over the Arizona Outkast. All three championship games and the 2021 All-American game were broadcast on Next Level Sports television channel and FTF Next streaming channel.

2022

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Heading into the 2022 season, the WFA rebranded Division 1 as the Pro Division and labeled the level as "WFA Pro." The league started the season with 59 teams: 11 in the Pro Division, 12 in Division 2, and 27 in Division 3. The league also added a developmental level that launched with nine teams.

The league's championship games again took place at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium at Hall of Fame Village in Canton, Ohio. On July 10, the Boston Renegades collected their fourth consecutive league title with a 32–12 victory over the Minnesota Vixen.[16] On July 9, the Mile High Blaze defeated the Derby City Dynamite 21–20 to win the Division 2 title,[17] and the Oklahoma City Lady Force claimed the Division 3 crown with a 25–0 victory over the Capital City Savages.[18] The National Conference won the All-American Game 14–12.

For the first time, the WFA Pro National Championship Game was broadcast on ESPN2. AdeNation was the name sponsor for the championship game while Xenith sponsored the WFA All-American Game. The WFA also signed a multi-year licensing deal with Fathead [19] and brought back "The Road To Canton" television show for a second season.[20] The 2023 season began April 22 with 14 teams.[21]

2023

[edit]

Following the success of the 2022 WFA Pro Championship Game broadcast, WFA reached a deal to air the 2023 Pro Championship on ESPN2.[22] The WFA began the 2023 season with 60 teams: 14 in the Pro Division, 16 in Division 2, 24 in Division 3, and 6 in the Developmental Division.

The regular season ran from April 22 to June 10, with the championship games played on July 22. The Boston Renegades defeated the St. Louis Slam in the WFA Pro National Championship Game 35-7 to win their fifth consecutive championship and seventh overall. In the Division 2 Championship, the New York Wolves defeated the Oklahoma City Lady Force 21-0 for their first championship, and the Division 3 Championship saw the West Palm Beach Coyotes handily beat the New Mexico Banitas 58-6.

The WFA Pro National Championship Game garnered 174,000 live viewers,[23] leading to the WFA securing a primetime slot for the 2024 championship on ESPN2.[24]

On July 7, the WFA announced the National Championship Trophies would be renamed in honor of the late Franco Harris, a co-owner of the Pittsburgh Passion and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, citing his contributions to the league and women's football.[25]

2024

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The 2024 WFA season saw an overall decrease in the number of teams, with 54 total: 14 in WFA Pro, 15 in Division 2, and 29 in Division 3. The regular season ran from April 27 to June 15, with most teams play 6 games over 8 weeks.

In the WFA Pro National Championship Game, the St. Louis Slam defeated the Boston Renegades, 30-27, ending the latter's streak of five straight championships. The Nebraska Pride won the Division 2 championship over the West Palm Beach Coyotes, 32-6, while the Cincinnati Cougars took the Division 3 title over the New Mexico Banitas, 48-26.

Teams

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WFA Pro

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Team Location Founded Joined Head coach
National Conference
Alabama Fire Birmingham, Alabama 2015 2023 Cedric Lane
Boston Renegades Boston, Massachusetts 2015 2015 John Johnson
Cali War Los Angeles, California 2018 2019 Jeff King
D.C. Divas Washington, D.C. 2000 2011 Allysea Marfull
New York Wolves New York, New York 2018 2019 Fabian Alesandro
Pittsburgh Passion Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 2002 2016 Teresa Conn
Tampa Bay Inferno Tampa, Florida 2009 2010 Arlo Henderson
American Conference
Arlington Impact Arlington, Texas 2011 2023 Jimmie Hughes
Dallas Elite Mustangs Dallas, Texas 2014 2015 Kristian Scott
Houston Energy Houston, Texas 2000 2019 Brian Wiggins
Mile High Blaze Denver, Colorado 2013 2015 Rob Sandlin
Minnesota Vixen St. Paul, Minnesota 1999 2017 Connor Jo Lewis
Nevada Storm Reno, Nevada 2011 2019 Chris Garza
St. Louis Slam St. Louis, Missouri 2003 2009 Quincy Davis

Division 2

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Team Location Founded Joined Head coach
National Conference
Atlanta Rage Atlanta, Georgia 2022 2023 Blair Clark
Baltimore Nighthawks Baltimore, Maryland 2007 2017 Mike Lynn
Capital City Savages Lansing, Michigan 2017 2019 Andre Broach
Carolina Phoenix Greensboro, North Carolina 2006 2017 Maria V. Ormond
Columbus Chaos Columbus, Ohio 2021 2022 Mike Kandler
Derby City Dynamite Louisville, Kentucky 2011 2012 Tracy Logan
Detroit Venom Detroit, Michigan 2011 2012 Andre Harlon
Grand Rapids Tidal Waves Grand Rapids, Michigan 2017 2018 Stacey Davis
Jacksonville Dixie Blues Jacksonville, Florida 2001 2009 Michelle Robinson
Miami Fury Miami, Florida 2000 2011 Raul Camaliche
Tri-State Warriors New Brunswick, New Jersey 2021 2022 Rich Harrigan
West Palm Beach Coyotes West Palm Beach, Florida 2019 2023 Paul Gonsalves
American Conference
Austin Outlaws Austin, Texas 2001 2009 Jason Barlow
Nebraska Pride Omaha, Nebraska 2023 2023 Nancy Javaux-Major
Oklahoma City Lady Force Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 2014 2021 Leonard Bulock
Portland Fighting Shockwave Portland, Oregon 2002 2013 TBD
Sun City Stealth El Paso, Texas 2019 2021 Marcus Riley
Vegas NVaders Las Vegas, Nevada 2023 2024 Erik Garcia

Division 3

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Region Team Location Founded Joined Head coach
National Conference
Northeast Region Connecticut Nightmare Windsor, Connecticut 2009 2017 Bruce Haney
Harrisburg Havoc Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 2021 2022 Jeff Thomas
Maine Mayhem Portland, Maine 2015 2017 Bryant Oja
New Hampshire Rebellion Manchester, New Hampshire 2021 2022 Arasi Chau
New York Knockout Troy, New York 2012 2017 Lou Butts
Upstate Lady Predators Rochester, New York 2023 2024 Jessica Coluzzi
Southeast Region Cincinnati Cougars Cincinnati, Ohio 2022 2023 Izaah Burks Sr.
East Tennessee Valkyrie Elizabethton, Tennessee 2021 2022 Shannon Simpson
Music City Mizfits Nashville, Tennessee 2016 2017 Donald Ragsdale
Orlando Anarchy Orlando, Florida 2009 2010 Sherman Harlow
Raleigh Express Raleigh, North Carolina 2022 2023 Brent Fisher
Richmond Black Widows Richmond, Virginia 2015 2016 Steve Baxter
Virginia Panthers Williamsburg, Virginia 2022 2023 James Lancaster
American Conference
Midwest Region Cedar Raptors Cedar Rapids, Iowa 2023 2024 Quinton Ray
Iowa Phoenix Des Moines, Iowa 2018 2019 Ricky Jimenez-Dragoni
Midwest Mountain Lions Waukegan, Illinois 2019 2022 Jahamal Hardy
Minnesota Minx Minneapolis, Minnesota 2021 2022 Grand Palmer
Oklahoma Rage Tulsa, Oklahoma 2022 2023 Tarrion Adams
Sioux Falls Snow Leopards Sioux Falls, South Dakota 2021 2021 Riley Key
Zydeco Spice Lafayette, Louisiana 2009 2010 Josh Edison
Pacific Region Arizona Outkast Phoenix, Arizona 2011 2019 TBD
Capital Pioneers Salem, Oregon 2019 2021 TBD
Central Valley Chaos Bakersfield, California 2021 2023 Andrew Blanton
New Mexico Banitas Las Cruces, New Mexico 2022 2023 Brian Bartlett
Oregon Cougars Eugene, Oregon 2021 2022 Chuck Hoffman
Rocky Mountain Thunderkatz Colorado Springs, Colorado 2012 2017 Demareo Pruitt
Wasatch Warriors Salt Lake City, Utah 2019 2023 Abel Tenorio

Developmental

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Team Location Founded Joined Head coach
Florida Legacy Fort Myers, Florida 2023 2024 Madison Schmatz

WFA Pro Championship Game results

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WFA Division II Championship Game results

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WFA Division III Championship Game results

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WFA Flag Championship Game results

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Year Winner Loser Score
2025 Pittsburgh Passion Cali War 26–14

Alliance Bowl results

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Alliance Bowl Midwest Region results

[edit]
Year Winner Loser Score
2015 Houston Power Acadiana Zydeco 9–6

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) is the largest and longest-running professional women's tackle football league in the world, comprising over 60 teams across the and an international footprint spanning nine countries on four continents. Founded in 2009 by Lisa King, the WFA was established to promote and expand opportunities for female athletes in full-contact , drawing on over four decades of women's tackle football history while addressing financial barriers through corporate sponsorships and reinvestment in the sport. The league's mission emphasizes building professionally organized, highly competitive teams that foster growth, with a network of more than 2,500 players competing in a structured season culminating in a game. Key achievements include becoming the first women's football league to host its in an NFL stadium, secure a multi-year broadcasting deal with , and have MVP jerseys displayed in the ; it has also partnered with the NFL to empower women in football and support initiatives. The WFA's games are broadcast on networks such as , Women's Sports Network, , and , highlighting its role in elevating women's sports visibility. Notably, the league has produced over 30 alumni who have transitioned into coaching and scouting roles, including trailblazers like and , underscoring its impact on gender equity in professional football. In 2025, the WFA expanded into with 58 teams, further broadening its competitive offerings and culminating in a national tournament at the Stadium.

Overview

Founding and ownership

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) was formed in 2009 by Lisa King and her husband Jeff King, emerging from the reorganization of teams previously affiliated with the (NWFA), which had faced operational challenges leading to its effective dissolution. Lisa King, a former semi-professional soccer player and for the WFA's Cali War team, drew from her athletic background to establish a new league focused on full-contact women's tackle football, while Jeff King, a former semi-pro football player inducted into the Minor Professional Football Hall of Fame, brought organizational expertise to the venture. The league launched its inaugural season in with 36 teams, many of which were established programs transitioning from prior leagues, emphasizing broad accessibility for female athletes by minimizing financial barriers to participation. The WFA's was designed to support this inclusivity, operating as a privately held entity owned by and prioritizing revenue reinvestment into teams through corporate sponsorships and partnerships rather than high franchise fees. This approach allowed the league to open opportunities nationwide without requiring significant upfront costs from players or teams, fostering growth from the outset. The WFA demonstrated its commitment to national competition immediately by hosting its first championship game in New Orleans, Louisiana, that same year, where the St. Louis Slam defeated the West Michigan Mayhem to claim the title. This event, held at Pan American Stadium, marked a pivotal moment in establishing the league's professional structure and visibility.

Mission and league principles

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) has a mission to serve as a sustainable foundation and governing body for women's professional tackle football, enabling the sport to thrive by providing teams and players with essential resources, competitive opportunities, and pathways for growth both domestically and internationally. This includes promoting women's tackle football through full-contact 11-on-11 competitive play, eliminating barriers such as models, and fostering global outreach via youth programs, international player exchanges, and support for emerging leagues in regions like Central and and . The league emphasizes equity in by reinvesting revenue from corporate sponsorships into team operations and player development, thereby maximizing national exposure while minimizing financial burdens on participants. At its core, the WFA operates on principles of high-level competition and accessibility, utilizing a full-contact 11-on-11 format that follows NCAA rules with targeted modifications to enhance player safety, such as adjusted targeting fouls and standards. These guidelines prioritize fair play and physical integrity, allowing teams to focus on skill-building and strategic execution without excessive travel costs, as divisions are structured regionally to reduce logistical challenges. The league's commitment to exposure is evident in its broadcast partnerships, which broadcast key events like the on platforms including and Women's Sports Network, amplifying the visibility of women's tackle football. To support players, the WFA offers comprehensive recognition and resources, including All-American selections, MVP awards with jerseys displayed in the , championship rings, and funding for playoff travel and uniforms. Inclusivity is a foundational principle, with the league open to athletes of all skill levels regardless of financial background, encouraging broad participation through tiered divisions that accommodate varying competitive tiers. Additionally, the WFA facilitates professional pathways, with over 30 veteran players transitioning to roles in coaching, scouting, and operations, underscoring its role in advancing women in football.

History

Inception and early seasons (2009–2015)

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) launched in 2009 as the largest full-contact women's in the United States, debuting with 36 teams divided into regional conferences to minimize travel expenses and promote sustainable local rivalries. This structure addressed key logistical barriers in women's tackle football, allowing teams to focus on development without prohibitive costs. The inaugural season culminated in the first Alliance Bowl, won by the Boston Renegades, establishing a foundation for national competition while highlighting the league's commitment to competitive equity across regions. From 2010 to 2012, the WFA experienced rapid expansion, growing to over 40 teams in 2010 and surpassing 50 by , with the introduction of a structured national playoff system that qualified top performers from each conference for postseason contention. A pivotal moment came in when the league hosted its championship at Heinz Field, the NFL's stadium—the first time a women's football title game was played in a professional NFL venue—where the Surge defeated the Force 40-36 before more than 2,000 spectators. This event, broadcast on , marked an early step in elevating the league's visibility and attracting broader media interest. Between 2013 and 2015, the WFA stabilized and expanded further, reaching over 60 teams by 2015 through organic growth and the influx of established squads from rival leagues like the Independent Women's Football League, which helped consolidate the sport's fragmented landscape. Early broadcasting efforts continued, with select games and playoffs streamed or aired on regional networks and online platforms, building toward larger deals. The league also initiated player development programs, including clinics and corporate-backed initiatives to nurture talent and provide resources for athletes regardless of financial background. Throughout these formative years, the WFA grappled with financial challenges, as many teams depended on player fees averaging $700 per season and limited sponsorships to cover operations, often straining smaller franchises. Player recruitment proved difficult in a male-dominated , with societal barriers and lack of visibility hindering outreach to potential athletes, though the league's growth demonstrated resilience and increasing interest among women seeking competitive outlets.

Expansion and tiered structure (2016–2020)

In 2016, the Women's Football Alliance introduced a three-tiered structure to better accommodate teams of varying skill levels, market sizes, and competitive readiness, thereby promoting greater parity and accessibility across the league. The top tier, known as the WFA Pro Division, featured 11 elite teams competing in a national league format. The second tier, WFA Division II, included 16 teams focused on mid-market regions, while the third tier, WFA Division III, comprised 16 regional teams aimed at smaller markets. This reorganization expanded the total number of teams to 43, allowing for more targeted competition and development pathways. Between 2017 and , the league experienced significant growth, reaching a peak of nearly 70 teams nationwide, reflecting increased interest and participation in women's tackle football. During this period, the WFA added a Developmental Division to support emerging teams and players, providing an entry-level competitive environment without the intensity of higher tiers; for example, the La Muerte de Las Cruces joined this division in 2017. A key milestone occurred in when Chante Bonds of the Renegades was named WFA Pro MVP, and her jersey from that season later became the first from the league to be displayed in the , highlighting the rising recognition of women's professional achievements. The league also began incorporating initiatives, including members with scouting experience, to identify and develop talent. From 2019 to 2020, the WFA maintained its expanded footprint with around 60-70 teams across divisions, but the profoundly impacted operations. The 2020 season was ultimately cancelled due to health and safety concerns related to the , marking the first full suspension in league history. In response, the WFA explored alternative engagements, including potential virtual events and clinics to sustain player involvement and community connections during the shutdown. This period underscored the league's resilience amid external challenges, setting the stage for postwar recovery.

Recent developments and growth (2021–2025)

Following the disruptions caused by the , the Women's Football Alliance resumed full seasons in 2021, featuring 49 teams across its divisions and implementing enhanced safety protocols such as mandatory testing and modified game formats to prioritize player health. In 2022, the league expanded slightly to over 50 teams, signing a five-year agreement with Hall of Fame Stadium in , for hosting national championships, which supported a return to pre-pandemic operations with eight regular-season games per team. This period also saw growth in affiliated youth and programs, with the WFA partnering with organizations to introduce clinics and developmental leagues aimed at increasing participation among younger athletes. From 2023 to 2024, the WFA engaged in discussions about transitioning to a franchise model to attract investors and stabilize operations, while forging international partnerships to broaden its reach, including collaborations with leagues in and for player exchanges and joint events. The Slam captured the 2024 Pro Division national title, broadcast on , marking their sixth overall. These years highlighted the league's tiered structure, which facilitated sustainable growth by allowing teams to advance based on performance. The 2025 season commenced with more than 60 teams, reflecting continued expansion, and the schedule was released on February 9, underscoring a structured path to the playoffs. On June 25, 2025, the league announced its All-American team, recognizing top performers across divisions ahead of the postseason to compete at Hall of Fame Stadium. On June 5, 2025, the WFA revealed plans for expansion into in 2026 through a partnership with Cosmos Sports & Entertainment, targeting markets like and to introduce professional teams under the new franchise model. National championships were held in , where the Slam defended their title by defeating the D.C. Divas 26-14 in the Pro Division final on July 26, and the Richmond Black Widows secured the Division III title with a 25-7 over the Rage. Broader impacts included surging viewership, with the 2025 Pro Division championship drawing over 200,000 viewers on —outpacing several NWSL games—and cumulative national broadcasts reaching millions annually. Additionally, a with NFL Alumni provided retired WFA players access to benefits and community programs, enhancing player support and visibility.

League Organization

Divisions and team tiers

The Women's Football Alliance employs a tiered classification system for its teams, structured across multiple divisions to foster at varying levels while promoting player development and geographic efficiency. This setup includes the Pro Division as the pinnacle of play, followed by Division II and Division III, allowing teams to advance based on merit. The Pro Division constitutes the elite tier, comprising 14 teams in 2025 and upholding full standards, including rigorous training, national visibility, and the highest intensity among WFA franchises. This level attracts top talent and serves as the primary showcase for the league's premier . Division II functions as an intermediate tier with 15–16 teams, prioritizing development through balanced and regional matchups that build without the full demands of play. Division III operates at the entry level, featuring 24–29 teams dedicated to onboarding new franchises and emphasizing foundational skill-building for emerging players. Promotion and relegation across tiers are governed by criteria such as win percentage and playoff outcomes, enabling upward mobility for high-performing squads. Within each tier, teams are grouped into geographic conferences—such as the American and National—to reduce travel burdens and encourage localized rivalries.

Season format and playoffs

The regular season of the Women's Football Alliance (WFA) typically spans from late to late June, allowing teams to compete in 8 to 10 games each, depending on divisional alignments and scheduling constraints. Scheduling emphasizes conference-based matchups within the American and National Conferences to minimize travel while fostering regional rivalries and competitive balance across the Pro, Division II, and Division III tiers. Postseason qualification grants the top 8 teams from each division entry into single-elimination , determined by regular-season win-loss records and tiebreakers such as head-to-head results and point differential. The bracket structure features quarterfinals in late , followed by conference semifinals in mid-July, culminating in games for each division held over a weekend in late July at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in . In 2025, the WFA enhanced visibility with broadcasts of select conference games and the Pro national championship on , alongside streaming options for other playoff contests on ESPN+. Real-time scoring and updates were provided through the league's official website and integrated digital platforms during all games. Additionally, updated promotion criteria incorporated expanded international eligibility, enabling players from partner leagues in countries like to qualify for divisional advancement based on performance benchmarks.

Teams

Pro Division

The Pro Division of the Women's Football Alliance features the league's top professional teams, with 12 franchises competing in the 2025 season across the American and National Conferences. These teams play a regular season of six to eight games, with the top four from each conference advancing to single-elimination leading to the . While earlier sources like Wikipedia list 14 teams including now-inactive franchises such as the Boston Renegades, the current structure reflects adjustments due to suspensions and realignments. The division includes established powerhouses and competitive newcomers. In the American Conference, the undefeated Slam (founded 2003, St. Louis, MO) dominated the 2025 season with a 6-0 record, securing their sixth national title overall in a 26-14 victory over the D.C. Divas. Other key teams include the Cali War (, CA), who finished 5-1 and reached the playoffs; the Nebraska Pride (Omaha, NE); the (Minneapolis, MN); the (Denver, CO); the Nevada Storm (Reno, NV, founded 2010); the (Houston, TX); and the (Dallas, TX). The National Conference features the (founded 2002, Pittsburgh, PA), who posted a 5-1 record en route to the conference championship game; the D.C. Divas (founded 2000, ), a three-time champion with a storied rivalry against the Passion; the Tampa Bay Inferno (Tampa, FL); and the (Philadelphia, PA). Pro Division teams operate with professional standards, employing experienced coaches from collegiate and professional football backgrounds to develop elite athletes. Sponsorships from national brands like Secret and local partners provide financial support for operations, equipment, and travel, while league-wide deals enable broadcasts for key games. These franchises also drive community impact through initiatives like youth football clinics, health awareness campaigns, and charitable partnerships; for instance, the St. Louis Slam focuses on empowering women and families via service and education programs. The Pro Division's success, including the 2025 championship drawing significant viewership on , underscores its role in advancing women's professional tackle football.

Division II

Division II serves as an intermediate competitive tier in the Women's Football Alliance, bridging the developmental focus of Division III with the professional caliber of the Pro Division, emphasizing skill enhancement and regional rivalries among more established programs. In the 2025 season, the division comprised 15 teams, drawing from across the with a strong emphasis on balanced representation in the East, Midwest, and West. Key teams included the Atlanta Rage (Georgia), Baltimore Nighthawks (), Cincinnati Cougars (), Columbus Chaos (), Derby City Dynamite (), Grand Rapids Tidal Waves (), Indiana Valor (), Jacksonville Dixie Blues (), Maine Mayhem (), New Mexico Banitas (), New York Knockouts (New York), Palm Beach Coyotes (), Salt Lake Wildcats (), Virginia Panthers (), and Austin Outlaws (). This level fosters mid-tier competition, where squads hone strategies and talent pipelines, often leading to upward mobility; for example, the Nebraska Pride advanced to the Pro Division following their 2024 Division II title win. The division has seen particular expansion in the Midwest and West, with teams like the Indiana Valor and Salt Lake Wildcats exemplifying regional growth through increased fan engagement and player recruitment in underserved areas. The Salt Lake Wildcats clinched the 2025 Division II National Championship with a decisive victory over the Nighthawks.

Division III

Division III serves as the entry-level tier within the Women's Football Alliance, focusing on new and developmental squads that provide foundational competition for emerging players in women's tackle football. This division functions primarily as a talent pipeline, enabling athletes to hone skills and gain experience before potential advancement to higher tiers, while accommodating high team turnover through performance-based promotions. In 2025, Division III comprised 24 to 29 teams, with an emphasis on squads from emerging markets such as the Richmond Black Widows and the Sioux Falls Snow Leopards. The Richmond Black Widows, based in , clinched the 2025 Division III with a victory over the Oklahoma Rage, showcasing defensive prowess and special teams contributions in a 25-7 win. Other standout teams included the Thunderkatz, who led the division in scoring with 146 total points across the season, and the IO Phoenix, averaging 28 points per game. The division's structure promotes rapid evolution, as top performers earn promotion to Division II, creating ongoing opportunities for fresh talent integration and league-wide growth. Additionally, Division III incorporates international trial teams to support the WFA's global outreach, allowing players from abroad to participate in competitive as part of talent scouting initiatives. During the 2025 season, the East Conference delivered particularly strong performances, exemplified by the Richmond Black Widows' dominant playoff run to the national title.

Developmental and international teams

The Women's Football Alliance maintains a developmental framework focused on nurturing emerging talent through non-competitive structures, primarily in the United States. This includes the GameChangeHers youth program, which empowers young female athletes by connecting them with WFA teams for hands-on training, mentorship from professional players, and skill-building clinics nationwide. The program emphasizes fostering confidence and passion in a male-dominated , without involving regular season games, and features the WFA FUTURES Clinic—a national event for girls' flag and tackle football held at the , providing elite instruction from WFA athletes and professionals. Complementing these efforts, the WFA supports under-18 players through affiliated youth initiatives integrated into local team outreach, prioritizing long-term skill development over competition. Additionally, the league's partnership with Parity serves as its official development collaborator, enhancing opportunities for athletes via sponsorship amplification, visibility, and professional growth resources tailored to emerging players. On the international front, the WFA extends its reach via the WFA International division, which promotes global growth of women's tackle football through scouting programs, training camps, player exchanges, and sister-team affiliations across multiple continents. These initiatives have hosted 17 events in 7 countries spanning 3 continents, including targeted in and to identify and develop talent from partner leagues in those regions. The league maintains affiliations with organizations in , , , and , facilitating cross-border development without formal competitive integration into U.S. divisions. A key milestone is the planned 2026 expansion into , adopting a franchise model to establish professional teams and create a North American league structure, with active recruitment of ownership groups in major cities. This builds on recent partnerships, such as with Queensland in , where four women's tackle teams currently compete under WFA guidelines, with plans to grow to six in the near future.

Championships

Pro Division results

The Pro Division of the Women's Football Alliance has crowned a national champion annually since through a playoff culminating in the WFA Pro Championship Game. This contest determines the league's top team among its elite tier, with games hosted at neutral sites. Starting in , championships have been held at Hall of Fame Stadium in .
YearWinnerLoserScoreLocationMVP
2009 SlamWest Michigan Mayhem21–14New Orleans, LANot available
2010Lone Star MustangsColumbus Comets16–13Louisville, KYNot available
2011 MilitiaSan Diego Surge72–14Indianapolis, INNot available
2012San Diego Surge Militia42–14Uniontown, PANot available
2013 Diamonds Militia21–14Lakewood, NJNot available
2014 RenegadesPhiladelphia Phantomz28–0Gettysburg, PANot available
2015D.C. DivasPhiladelphia Phantomz20–16Gettysburg, PANot available
2016D.C. Divas Elite28–26, PANot available
2017 Elite Renegades31–21, PANot available
2018 RenegadesLos Angeles Warriors42–18Atlanta, GAChante Bonds ( Renegades)
2019 RenegadesCali War52–24Golden, COChante Bonds ( Renegades)
2021 RenegadesMinnesota Vixen42–26Canton, OHNot available
2022 RenegadesD.C. Divas20–0Canton, OHNot available
2023 Renegades Slam35–7Canton, OHNot available
2024 Slam Renegades30–27Canton, OHNot available
2025 SlamD.C. Divas26–14Canton, OHNot available
The 2020 season was canceled due to the . The Boston Renegades hold the record for most Pro Division titles with six victories (2014, 2018, 2019, 2021–2023), establishing a dynasty through consistent playoff success and defensive prowess. The Slam follows with three Pro Division championships (2009, 2024, 2025), including back-to-back wins in 2024 and 2025. Championship game MVPs are selected for outstanding performance, with Boston Renegades' Chante Bonds earning the honor in consecutive years (2018, 2019) for her versatile contributions on both sides of the ball.

Division II results

The Division II Championship serves as the culminating game for the mid-tier teams in the Women's Football Alliance, determining the annual national champion among Division II squads. Established in 2016 alongside the league's divisional structure, the championship highlights competitive balance and player development, with winners often earning opportunities for promotion to the elite Pro Division.
YearWinnerLoserScore
2016St. Louis SlamTampa Bay Inferno38–7
2017St. Louis SlamTampa Bay Inferno42–15
2018New York SharksMinnesota Vixen27–21
2019St. Louis SlamDetroit Dark Angels34–0
2020No season (canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic)N/AN/A
2021Nevada StormDetroit Dark Angels42–18
2022Mile High BlazeDerby City Dynamite21–20
2023New York WolvesOklahoma City Lady Force21–0
2024Nebraska PrideWest Palm Beach Coyotes32–6
2025Salt Lake WildcatsBaltimore Nighthawks19–0
The Slam holds the record for most Division II titles with three victories (2016, 2017, and ), including back-to-back wins over the same opponent in their first two championships. These successes facilitated the Slam's promotion to the Pro Division following the season, underscoring the championship's role in elevating top performers. Early finals were hosted at regional venues, such as in 2016 and 2017 and in 2018, before transitioning to centralized national events at the Hall of Fame Stadium in , starting in 2021 to align with league-wide .

Division III results

The Division III Championship, introduced with the league's tiering structure in 2016, has featured a diverse array of winners, reflecting the competitive depth at this entry-level tier of women's tackle football. Unlike higher divisions, Division III emphasizes development for emerging teams, often leading to unpredictable outcomes as new franchises challenge established programs. The 2020 season was cancelled due to the , resulting in no that year.
YearWinnerRunner-upScore
2016Acadiana ZydecoRichmond Black Widows20–18
2017 WildcatsOrlando 42–26
2018Orlando Wildcats46–0
2019Nevada StormOrlando 62–45
2020No seasonN/AN/A
2021Derby City Dynamite 30–20
2022 Lady Force Savages25–0
2023West Palm Beach Coyotes Banitas58–6
2024 Cougars Banitas48–26
2025Richmond Black Widows Rage25–7
Division III results exhibit high variability, with nine different champions across the ten seasons held since 2016, underscoring the influx of new teams and the potential for upsets in this developmental tier. For instance, the Orlando Anarchy's back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018 marked a brief period of dominance, but subsequent years saw underdogs like the Derby City Dynamite (2021) and (2024) prevail over favored opponents, highlighting the league's emphasis on parity and growth at this level.

Flag and Alliance Bowl results

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) Flag National Championship represents the league's premier non-contact competition, emphasizing speed, agility, and strategy in a format. Inaugurated in 2025, it serves as the culminating event for participating teams after a season of tournaments and qualifiers.
YearWinnerLoserScore
2025Pittsburgh PassionCali War26–14
The inaugural game took place on July 26, 2025, at Hall of Fame Stadium in , marking a significant expansion of the WFA's non-tackle offerings. The Alliance Bowl functions as a consolation invitational within the WFA, held concurrently with weekend to provide postseason for teams eliminated from the primary tackle . Often structured with regional components, it fosters additional matchups and celebrates competitive spirit among non-qualifying squads. Notable Alliance Bowl outcomes include the 2014 national matchup, where the Indy Crash defeated the Seattle Majestics 26–12 at Lane Stadium in . In 2015, the regional Alliance Bowl saw the Power edge out the Acadiana Zydeco 18–6 in , , while the national edition featured the Central Cal War Angels overcoming the Atlanta Phoenix at Los Angeles Southwest College Stadium. Youth flag football integration within the WFA began in 2020, aligning with the league's partnership with the (NAIA) to establish as an emerging championship sport, alongside the creation of the Women's Football Coaches Alliance to support development. This effort expanded through team-hosted clinics nationwide, building foundational skills for young female athletes. By 2025, the WFA formalized its commitment with the launch of the National Flag Football League, a structured tour from August 2025 to February 2026 offering points-based qualification for 16 teams and a $10,000 grand prize at the , enhancing pathways from youth to professional levels.

Achievements and impact

Broadcasting and media coverage

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) secured a multi-year broadcast agreement with in , marking a significant milestone as the first women's tackle football league to achieve national television exposure on a major network. This partnership has enabled live broadcasts of key events, including the Pro Division National Championship on , with the 2022 game airing on July 10. In August 2024, the WFA announced an expanded agreement with for the 2025 season, further increasing visibility for championship games. Building on this, the WFA finalized a historic broadcast deal with the All Women's Sports Network (AWSN) in April 2025, which includes airing select 2025 games and provides direct funding to teams for the first time in women's football . These agreements have contributed to millions of annual viewers across national TV, underscoring the league's growing platform in women's sports. Complementing traditional broadcasting, the WFA streams games live on its official YouTube channel, reaching dedicated fans with real-time access to matches and highlights. The league also produces the "Road to Canton" show, a weekly video series recapping games, playoffs, and championships to engage audiences year-round. For broader reach, the WFA leverages social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where it shares scores, updates, and promotional content to foster community growth. Additionally, a 2024 partnership with NFL Alumni promotes the league through joint events, player benefits, and cross-promotion to empower women in football and expand its audience. Live game scores are accessible via the WFA's website, enhancing fan engagement during seasons.

Notable players and milestones

The Women's Football Alliance (WFA) has produced numerous standout players who have excelled on the field and paved pathways for women in professional football. In 2025, the league announced its All-American Team, selected from over 2,500 athletes across 50 elite teams, highlighting top performers such as quarterback Jaime Gaal of the Slam, quarterback Chantel Wiggins of the Cali War, and wide receiver Brianna Barrett of the Cali War. These athletes competed in the All-American Game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, showcasing the league's depth of talent. Among the most decorated players are those from the Renegades, including Allison Cahill, an eight-time national champion and five-time MVP, and Whitney Zelee, who earned MVP honors in the 2023 WFA Pro National Championship with six tackles and two tackles for loss. Chante Bonds also claimed MVP in the 2022 championship as the Renegades' backup quarterback, leading to her game-worn jersey being displayed at the . Several WFA have transitioned to influential roles in the (), demonstrating the league's role in developing coaching talent. Katie Sowers, a former player with the Cleveland Crush in the WFA, became the first woman to coach in a as an offensive assistant for the in 2020 and later joined the Houston Texans as a full-time coach. Jennifer King, who played for WFA teams including the D.C. Divas and New York Sharks, made history as the first Black woman to serve as a full-time coach with the in 2024, following stints with the and . Lois Cook of the DC Divas was selected for the Alumni Academy in 2021, becoming the fifth WFA coach to participate in this prestigious internship program. By 2023, a record eight women held full-time coaching positions, with the WFA contributing significantly through its , marking the highest number in league history at that time. Key milestones underscore the WFA's growth and legitimacy in professional sports. In 2012, the league hosted its National Championship at Heinz Field, the stadium of the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the first time a women's football championship was played in an NFL venue. The 2025 season featured the All-American Team's game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, further cementing the league's ties to football's historic sites. On June 5, 2025, the WFA announced its expansion into Canada through a partnership with Cosmos Sports & Entertainment, aiming to add teams to the Pro Division by 2026 and recruit ownership groups in major cities. In October 2025, the WFA expanded its international footprint through a partnership with Australian Football Queensland, featuring four competitive teams with plans for a six-team league in the coming years. The WFA has significantly empowered women in sports by fostering inclusivity and providing platforms for athletic and personal development. Through initiatives like the WFA Youth program, teams connect with local girls to build confidence, passion, and opportunities in football, promoting diversity across backgrounds and body types. Partnerships, such as the 2024 collaboration with the NFL Alumni to support retired players and community outreach, and a 2025 agreement with edX for professional development courses, enhance resources for athletes beyond the field. Community engagement remains central, with teams participating in local events to inspire young girls and challenge stereotypes, including stories of players like a 70-year-old athlete defying age norms. The league's 2025 Pro National Championship achieved record viewership of over 200,000 live viewers on ESPN platforms, amplifying its visibility and impact.

References

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