It was a woman’s world in Key West last week, as the annual International Women’s Flag Football Association held its annual Kelly McGills Classic from Jan. 24-31.
Hundreds of women and girls from more than 30 teams around the country and the globe once again converged on Key West for a week of competition, camaraderie and a good bit of carousing downtown.
Created by Stock Island resident Diane Beruldsen more than 20 years ago, the league’s mission “is to provide an opportunity for all females regardless of race, nationality, age, skill level, economic status or sexual orientation to enjoy healthy competition, have fun and develop teamwork skills.
“Our goal is to educate and assist our players through our tournaments, clinics, and promotional tours while building self-esteem, confidence, and leadership skills,” says Beruldsen, who has traveled to Europe, Scandinavia and Central America to promote and teach the sport.
Games took place in Key West and on Stock Island and included more than a dozen youth teams of local players from Marathon, Sugarloaf and Key West.
In addition to the daily flag football games, the event includes evening activities, speakers and clinics for coaches and officials.
The International Women’s Flag Football Association hosts the Kelly McGillis Classic every year, bringing together hundreds of women from dozens of teams for a week of football and fun in Key West.
Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys WeeklyMore photos available at shadypalmphotography.com.
