Q&A with 18u Girls Coach of the Year: Ralph Graham Jr.
NFL FLAG Championships Presented by Toyota
July 26, 2024
Q&A with 18u Girls Coach of the Year: Ralph Graham Jr.
We’re excited to shine a spotlight on Ralph Graham Jr., the 18u Girls Coach of the Year, who led the Jaguars Elite from Jacksonville to an incredible season. Not only did his team win two regional tournaments in New Orleans and Jacksonville, but they also took home the championship in their bracket at the NFL FLAG Championships Presented by Toyota, held at the iconic Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Spotlight on Ralph Graham Jr., the 18u Girls Coach of the Year
In this Q&A, Coach Graham opens up about his journey in flag football, his most memorable moments, and what drives his passion for coaching.
What does NFL FLAG mean to you?
"I started playing right out of high school, where I fell in love with the game and had a lot of fun with it. An event like this national championship is probably one of the biggest events I’ve ever been to, and it’s incredible to see how a local flag football league has evolved into a national stage for these kids."
What is the most rewarding part of your coaching experience with NFL FLAG?
"Taking my knowledge and passing it on to my kids, and watching them excel in the game that I love is the most rewarding part. There’s something special about seeing their excitement when they score a touchdown or make a great play. It’s a joy to witness their growth and enthusiasm for a game they’re passionate about."
What’s your most memorable experience with NFL FLAG?
"The Jacksonville Jaguars reached out to us after we won the New Orleans Regional bid. They expressed their desire for us to represent them and asked if we would consider competing in Jacksonville instead. It was a tremendous honor for us to represent an NFL team, and it meant a lot to me and our girls."
What inspired you to start coaching?
"I began coaching my sons when they were young, and when my daughter wanted to start playing, I became her coach. I immediately fell in love with coaching girls' flag football. Seeing how the sport can grow for girls, especially when football has traditionally been dominated by boys, is inspiring. I believe that flag football for girls will continue to expand and become even more prominent."
What do you enjoy most about coaching flag football?