FLORHAM PARK, NJ – The New York Jets are expanding their commitment to growing girls’ flag football, unveiling the 2025–26 Jets Flag Elite rosters and introducing the franchise’s first-ever 14U travel team.
The announcement also marks a new partnership with Fathead, which joins as the inaugural presenting sponsor for the Jets Flag Elite program.
Fathead will cover all player travel expenses, including flights and hotels, while the Jets will continue to fund coaches, training facilities, equipment, and tournament fees—virtually eliminating participation costs for players and their families.
Key Points
- Jets Flag Elite adds first-ever 14U travel team for the 2025–26 season
- Fathead joins as the program’s first presenting partner, covering travel costs
- Program aims to expand opportunities for girls in flag football ahead of the sport’s Olympic debut in 2028
Fathead partnership expands access for athletes
“We are excited to announce Fathead as the first presenting partner of Jets Flag Elite,” said Jeff Fernandez, Jets Senior Vice President of Business Development and Ventures. “This partnership is a landmark moment for the program and for girls’ flag football overall.”
In addition to sponsoring travel, Fathead will produce custom “Big Heads” for each player, giving fans a unique way to cheer the team on at tournaments around the country.
Fathead Chief Partnership Officer Jen Beaver said the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to women’s sports. “For us, being part of this program is about investing in future leaders who are excelling both on and off the field,” Beaver said.
Building pathways for the next generation
Jets Flag Elite provides young athletes with professional-level resources and exposure while creating potential pathways to college scholarships and USA National Team opportunities. The initiative aligns with efforts to grow girls’ flag football globally as it prepares for its debut as an Olympic sport in 2028.
Now entering its second season, the program will field two competitive teams — the high school division and the new 14U squad — both competing in 5-on-5 flag tournaments at local, regional, and national levels.
Experienced coaches lead elite squads
Ridgewood High School Girls Flag Head Coach Mickey McDermott will return to lead the high school division after guiding the team to a “We Run the World: Philadelphia” tournament victory last year, alongside his third straight New Jersey High School Flag Football Championship. Victoria Burgarella, head coach at Xavierian High School, continues as assistant coach.
The new 14U team will be led by Head Coach Jesse Marrow, joined by assistants Kyle Slivla-Fralin and Alisa Harrison. Marrow, a veteran coach with over 15 years of experience, also serves with Team USA’s 15U Boys Flag Football Team and UConn’s Club Flag Football program.
Growing the game across the Northeast
With Fathead’s support and a growing network of young athletes, the Jets Flag Elite program aims to inspire the next generation of girls’ flag football players, expanding opportunities throughout the Northeast and setting the standard for youth development in the fast-growing sport.