Prospective student-athletes are encouraged to complete the interest forms for each respective team: Flag Football | Lacrosse
St. Catherine University is proud to announce the addition of flag football and women's lacrosse as new varsity sports, expanding opportunities for student-athletes and continuing the institution's commitment to growth within NCAA Division III athletics. The new teams mark the Wildcats' first additions to their intercollegiate programs since adding golf in fall 2011.
Flag football is slated to begin competition in the spring of 2027, with women's lacrosse set to begin in the spring of 2028. The department will conduct national searches for head coaches who will lead program development, recruiting, and competitive readiness.
"We are thrilled to be adding to our varsity sport offerings," said Eric Stacey, director of athletics. "Flag football and lacrosse are both fast-growing sports at the youth and high school level, so it is an excellent time for St. Kate's to move in this direction. These additions will bolster the vibrant and positive atmosphere our student-athletes foster throughout the athletic department and across the entire campus."
Flag football is one of the fastest-growing women's sports nationwide, while women's lacrosse continues to see strong growth at the collegiate level. The addition of the two programs also supports St. Catherine University's broader enrollment strategy by creating new pathways for prospective student-athletes, expanding recruiting reach, and enhancing campus engagement. Both sports align with the University's mission to develop leaders, foster belonging, and provide transformative student experiences.
Women's flag football was added to the NCAA emerging sports list during the January 2026 NCAA national convention. The designation creates an exciting pathway for flag football to achieve full recognition for future NCAA championship status. It also reinforces St. Catherine University's position as a national leader, offering 14 varsity sports — the most of any all-women's college or university.
Interest forms for prospective student-athletes:
About St. Catherine University Athletics
St. Catherine University Athletics is an NCAA Division III all-women's department sponsoring 14 varsity programs and competing in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC). Rooted in the University's mission to educate women to lead and influence, St. Kate's Athletics delivers an optimal student-athlete experience within a highly competitive environment while empowering women to be leaders in scholarship, athleticism, and service. Through the opportunities created by competition and the team environment, the department fosters transformational leadership, personal achievement, and lifelong connections to the University, preparing graduates for success beyond sport.