New York Jets and Palace for Life Expand Girls' Flag Football in London

The partnership, announced in London, strengthens the ties between the NFL franchise and the Crystal Palace Football Club charity. Woody Johnson, who serves as both New York Jets Chairman and a director at Crystal Palace, championed the initiative to provide young women with structured pathways into competitive sports. The funding will cover essential equipment, uniforms, and travel support for participating institutions, including Orchard Park, Sedgehill Academy, and La Retraite.

To mark the launch, 90 students gathered at the Crystal Palace Academy for a specialized clinic, marking their first experience with the non-contact version of American football. Mike Summers, CEO of Palace for Life, noted that the program offers a distinct alternative to traditional soccer, focusing on building leadership and resilience. This effort aligns with the global surge in flag football popularity ahead of its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The project represents a broader push by the Jets, whose total investment in international flag football activities in London and Dublin has now eclipsed $1.5 million.