Showtime Flag Football League Poised for Growth and International Recognition with New Partnership
The Showtime Flag Football League, Nigeria’s premier co-ed professional league, has announced a significant partnership with Sosa Fruit Drink, a product of Rite Foods Limited. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for the league as it embarks on its 13th season, with aspirations firmly fixed on the sport’s Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028. The partnership signifies not only a commercial boost but also a renewed commitment to elevating the sport’s profile and nurturing Nigerian talent to compete on the global stage. The announcement, made at a press conference in Lagos, brought together key figures from both organizations, highlighting the shared vision for the future of flag football in Nigeria.
Showtime’s instrumental role in Nigeria’s recent success at the African Flag Football Championship in Egypt, where both the men’s and women’s teams secured victory, underscores the league’s growing influence. The league provides a professional environment that fosters the development of high-caliber athletes capable of competing at the highest levels. Ivie Okuns, Showtime’s Vice President of Commercial Sports, emphasized the league’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent, stating, “What we are doing at Showtime is elevating the quality of play for flag football.” The overlap between Showtime players and national team members, including the female quarterback who led both her league team and the national team to victory, serves as a testament to the league’s high standards. This quality of play prepares athletes for international competition and contributes to Nigeria’s growing prominence in the sport.
Showtime’s commitment to grassroots development is a core element of its strategy. Initiatives like Showtime Streetz, a program that identifies and trains aspiring players from local communities across Lagos, are expanding the sport’s reach and creating a pipeline of talent. The program provides professional-level training to individuals discovered through community scouting, extending opportunities to those who may not have had access to structured coaching. Showtime plans to further expand these initiatives into schools and universities, fostering the next generation of flag football players and solidifying Nigeria’s position as a flag football powerhouse. The partnership with Sosa Fruit Drink will be instrumental in supporting these outreach programs and broadening the impact of Showtime’s developmental efforts.
With flag football set to debut as an Olympic sport in Los Angeles in 2028, Showtime is confident that Nigeria has the potential to qualify and make a significant impact. The league’s focus on developing high-quality players and expanding the sport’s reach positions Nigeria as a strong contender on the international stage. Showtime has pledged its support to any players aspiring to compete in the Olympics, aiming to showcase Nigerian talent to the world. Okuns expressed unwavering confidence in Nigeria’s prospects, stating, “Flag football is played in many countries, but Nigeria is a strong contender. Showtime will definitely back any players going to the Olympics.”
Founded in 2023 by Azeez Amida, the Showtime Flag Football League has rapidly become Nigeria’s largest co-ed professional league. The league’s unique structure, with each team requiring at least three women on the field at all times, promotes inclusivity and gender equality within the sport. Operating under modified International Federation of American Football (IFAF) rules, the league maintains a high level of competition while also fostering a welcoming and diverse environment. The league’s rapid growth and innovative approach have set it apart, attracting both seasoned athletes and newcomers to the sport.
Season XIII, commencing on Sunday at the Showtime Arena in Elegushi, Lekki, promises to be another exciting chapter in the league’s history. Ten teams will compete for the coveted championship title: Alpha Alpha, Braves Braves, Greenbacks Greenbacks, Ikan Ikan, LA Knights LA Knights, Long Horns Long Horns, Panthers Panthers, Raptors Raptors, Rebels Rebels, and Warriors Warriors. The season, culminating in the Showtime Bowl on December 21st, will feature a regular season, wildcard round, and playoffs, providing ample opportunities for thrilling matchups and showcasing the evolving talent within the league. The championship team will not only earn bragging rights but will also receive a cash prize, a trophy, and custom player rings, solidifying their place in Showtime’s history.
The partnership with Sosa Fruit Drink and the ambitious goals set for Season XIII mark a turning point for Showtime and flag football in Nigeria. With a focus on player development, grassroots outreach, and international recognition, Showtime is well-positioned to lead the charge in establishing Nigeria as a dominant force in the world of flag football. As the league continues to grow and evolve, it is poised to inspire a new generation of athletes and further elevate the sport’s profile both within Nigeria and on the global stage. The upcoming season promises to be a showcase of athleticism, competition, and the continued rise of flag football in Nigeria.
