Bowen Rec is pleased to announce the launch of Flag Football Programming this spring!
The programming will include adult and youth drop-in sessions, weekly kids’ programming, as well as weekend tournaments. Plus, flag football will now be a regular feature at our summer camps and community events.
The new programming is being made possible thanks to a generous donation of flag football gear from Jim Mullin, the outgoing President of Football Canada and current Secretary General of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), the international governing body for gridiron football.
The donation will equip four new teams, providing young athletes — both boys and girls — with the opportunity to learn and enjoy the game in a safe and accessible format. The introduction of flag football marks a significant expansion of the island’s recreational offerings and reflects a growing interest in the sport both nationally and internationally.
“As my tenure with Football Canada comes to a close, I wanted to give back to the community that has been my home and support system,” said Jim Mullin. “Introducing flag football to Bowen Island is a meaningful way to inspire our youth, promote physical activity, and foster a sense of teamwork and community spirit. What’s especially exciting is that flag football is a sport where boys and girls can play together on equal footing.”
Flag football has seen exponential growth in participation worldwide in recent years. According to IFAF, millions of players across the globe have embraced the sport due to its accessibility and emphasis on speed, agility, and strategy without the physical contact of traditional tackle football. This surge in popularity has led to its official approval as a new sport for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
“In my role with IFAF, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible growth of flag football on a global scale,” Mullin added. “With its inclusion in the 2028 Olympics, we’re entering an exciting new era for the sport. Bringing this dynamic and inclusive game to Bowen Island gives our young athletes the chance to be part of something truly special.”
The International Olympic Committee’s approval of flag football for the 2028 Games has energized communities worldwide to develop grassroots programs, making Bowen Island’s new initiative both timely and significant. The sport’s co-ed nature allows boys and girls to compete together, promoting inclusivity and teamwork across gender. The new program aims to make football accessible to all children, regardless of their prior experience with the sport.
Parents and guardians interested in registering their children for the flag football program can visit the Bowen Island Community Recreation website at bowencommunityrecreation.com or contact their offices directly for more information.
