United Way and NFL Team Up to Promote Flag Football in China

When Kodie Fuller stepped onto the playground at Jiading Malu Elementary School on June 2, the students greeting her may not have realized they were meeting one of the most visible figures in international flag football.

Fuller, an Australian national team player and one of only eight athletes named Global Flag Football Ambassadors by the NFL, has spent the past two years helping carry the sport toward its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

That day in Shanghai, her work looked simpler: pulling flags, running drills, and cheering alongside children playing the game for the first time.

Her visits to Jiading Malu and Zhongkeyuan Experimental School marked the formal launch of a new program, and her presence made an impact beyond the ceremony. For these students, flag football is a global sport with room for them, introduced by an athlete whose role is to open that door for young people everywhere.

Connecting through Sports

Sport is the universal language and a powerful way to connect with young people, encourage physical activity, promote teamwork, and build confidence.

In China, United Way Worldwide and the National Football League (NFL) are bringing flag football to schools in Shanghai to support children’s physical and mental well-being.

Through a 12-month pilot program, United Way and the NFL are introducing flag football as a safe, accessible, and engaging activity in 10 schools across Shanghai.

United Way has worked in China for nearly 30 years, with a consistent focus on helping children. Flag football is growing in popularity in China and is a great way to engage children. It’s easy to practice and safe for young students, given its limited physical body contact.

Plans for Expansion

With flag football set to become an official medal sport at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, interest in the sport is expected to continue rising.

In May 2026, NFL trainers and coaches trained 20 teachers from several schools, focusing on basic football rules and techniques. On June 2, they followed up with Kodie Fuller’s visit. United Way and the NFL are now planning a larger expansion, with hopes of reaching nearly 250 schools across China.

The expansion will place particular emphasis on migrant children, who often struggle to adapt and connect when their parents move to cities seeking employment. Flag football can help students build connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging, while supporting their emotional, social, and academic growth.

Together, United Way and the NFL are using sport to help children thrive in school, in their communities, and beyond.