If Caitlin Clark is truly serious about making her mark in flag football at the 2028 Olympics, she should prepare for a challenging journey ahead, as the CEO of the national team has stated that fame alone won’t secure her a spot on the squad. This sentiment reflects the competitive nature of the sport and the rigorous selection process that every aspiring player must undergo to be considered for the prestigious Olympic team.
The star of the WNBA recently shared her childhood dream of playing football during the NFL Annual League Meeting. She expressed her aspirations of donning the colors of the Red, White, and Blue on the football field when the Olympics arrive in a few years. This revelation has sparked excitement among fans, showcasing her versatility as an athlete and her willingness to explore new challenges beyond her basketball career.
“Maybe LA 2028 will see me competing in two sports,” Clark mentioned during the meeting. “If basketball doesn’t pan out the way I hope, I might just transition to flag football.” Her words highlight her determination and adaptability, showcasing her readiness to take on new athletic challenges as she aims for Olympic glory.
TMZ Sports reached out to Scott Hallenbeck, the CEO and Executive Director of USA Football, to discuss Clark’s remarks. He described her aspirations as “exciting” as they signify the significant growth of flag football in the sporting landscape. However, he emphasized that Clark will need to go through the same selection process as all other athletes to earn her place on the team.
“USA Football is committed to assembling the best team for the Los Angeles Olympics, and we have seen crossover athletes prove they can compete at the highest levels in flag football,” Hallenbeck stated. His comments reflect the evolving nature of the sport, where athletes from various disciplines are making significant contributions and raising the bar for competition.
“That said, there’s a process in place, and every athlete must earn their spot for LA28,” he added. This statement underscores the rigorous evaluation and selection process that every athlete must undergo to ensure that only the most qualified and dedicated players are chosen to represent the nation.
Although flag football differs from traditional tackle football in many aspects, trying out for a spot on the national team is still a challenging endeavor. We previously spoke with Darrell “Housh” Doucette, a prominent quarterback in flag football, who expressed confidence in his abilities, even comparing himself to three-time Super Bowl</b champion Patrick Mahomes, suggesting that he could outperform him on the flag football field.
“I’m not claiming I’m a better overall player, but until Mahomes steps onto a 5v5 flag football field, I’ll hold that belief until proven otherwise!” Doucette asserted. His competitive spirit shines through, demonstrating the passion and tenacity that characterizes elite athletes in any sport.
“I’m a competitor, and I need to be proven wrong,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to excellence and the challenges that lie ahead in the competitive landscape of flag football.
In response, Mahomes playfully disagreed by sharing a meme featuring 50 Cent on social media, indicating his lighthearted approach to the rivalry and the banter between athletes in the world of sports.
TMZSports.com
This upcoming event marks the inaugural inclusion of flag football in the Olympics, with both men and women athletes set to compete, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity and recognition on an international stage.
Therefore, if Clark wants to seize the opportunity and join in on the action, it’s essential for her to start honing her skills on the field and preparing her throwing arm for the challenges ahead!
