Members of the NC State flag football teams are gearing up for national competition this week at the NIRSA National Flag Football Championships in Houston, Texas. The teams, comprising two men’s squads and one women’s team, have embarked on an 18-hour journey to Rice University, where they will showcase their skills on January 7-9, 2026.
Practices for these teams have become a staple of Friday nights, according to former Carson High School quarterback Alex London. “We practiced on Fridays for a reason,” London remarked, emphasizing the unique thrill that comes with playing football under the night sky. The teams are set to face off against some of the best collegiate flag football teams from across the United States.
Flag football is played 7-on-7, consisting of two 20-minute halves. The teams are informally referred to as Team Red and Team White or Team Wolf and Team Pack. With a strong season behind them, London is optimistic that one of the NC State teams may return home as national champions.
London’s journey to this level of competition has been shaped by his experiences at Carson High School. During his time as the starting quarterback, he played a pivotal role in breaking records, including a game where teammate Hunter Courtney rushed for 346 yards, setting a school record. London’s high school career culminated in a thrilling 56-55 overtime victory against South Iredell, earning him recognition as the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s Male Athlete of the Week.
His father, Stephen London, a long-time coach in Rowan County, has been a significant influence on his football journey. Learning humility and teamwork from coaches like Joe Pinyan, Alex developed a love for the game that extended beyond high school. “Football was just fun,” he reflected, noting how the sport provided opportunities to bond with friends.
After transitioning to NC State, London discovered flag football through a former teammate, Isaac Bell. Although the sport was still in its early stages at the university, he decided to give it a try. “I showed up for the tryouts and made the team,” he explained. Starting as a backup quarterback, London took on various roles, from running back to linebacker, embracing the versatility required in flag football.
As he progressed, London’s involvement with the club deepened. He took on responsibilities as equipment manager and later served as vice president before becoming the club president in the spring of 2024. This leadership role has required significant dedication, including organizing practices, planning scrimmages, and handling logistics for tournaments.
The support from NC State’s athletic department has been vital, allowing student leaders like London to gain real-world experience in managing a sports team. “We’ve got an interesting melting pot of players,” London noted, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of the team members, from high school stars to those who had previously not played football.
Among the newcomers is freshman quarterback Brooks Overcash, who set records during his high school career. “He’s got an arm,” London said, expressing excitement about Overcash joining the team.
The NC State teams have enjoyed success this season, winning major tournaments, including competitions at Georgia Southern and Virginia Tech. London expressed pride in the progress of the women’s team, noting, “Flag football is growing really fast in North Carolina for girls.”
As London approaches graduation, he is also preparing for a career in engineering. He has completed internships with the North Carolina Department of Transportation and has secured a position starting in June. This trip to Houston represents a significant moment for him, as it may be his last competitive experience in football for some time.
While he does not envision coaching football professionally, he is open to volunteering in the future. “Maybe one day I’ll get to coach with my dad,” he said, reflecting on the lessons learned from influential coaches throughout his journey.
The NIRSA National Flag Football Championships promise to deliver high-stakes competition and showcase the talents of student athletes from across the nation. Fans and supporters of NC State will be closely watching as the teams aim for victory in Houston.
