ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills recently became the ninth NFL team to support a local chapter of the National Gay Flag Football League.
The flag football league started in 2002 and currently has 27 chapters and over 4,000 players. You don't have to be gay to compete in the league, which include straight allies.
"We are excited to join the NFL and other Clubs across the league in their support of the NGFFL," Bills vice president of community impact Michelle Roberts said Tuesday in a statement, announcing the news during Pride Month.
"Through our sponsorship, we are looking forward to expanding the impact of the NGFFL in our community."
Other NFL teams that sponsor a team in the National Gay Flag Football League include the New York Jets, New York Giants, New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and the Seattle Seahawks.
The league is in many non-NFL markets, including Austin, Honolulu, Portland, Ore., Providence, San Diego, Salt Lake City, and Toronto,
Gay Bowl XXIV events this year will be held Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 in downtown Austin.
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"Our mission is to unite the community through the spirit of competition while celebrating our diversity," NGFFL Commissioner Joel Horton said in a statement.
"By fostering an environment where everyone is welcome, we aim to build a stronger, more inclusive Buffalo. Together, with the backing of the Buffalo Bills, we are creating a space where all individuals can participate, compete, and thrive."
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