OTTAWA, Kan. — Ottawa University announces that Liz Sowers and Katie Sowers will depart the Braves women's flag football program following the 2026 spring season to accept coaching positions at the University of Nebraska. Their departure will mark the close of a historic chapter for Ottawa University, the NAIA, and the continued national growth of women's flag football.
 
During their tenure at Ottawa to date, Liz and Katie Sowers have played a pivotal role in strengthening one of the most successful programs in collegiate flag football. Competing at the NAIA level, Ottawa University has established itself as a national powerhouse, having captured five consecutive NAIA national tournament championships, a standard of excellence that reflects the culture, competitiveness, and leadership cultivated within the program.
 
As the NAIA continues to lead the expansion and formalization of women's flag football as an emerging sport, the Sowers sisters have been at the forefront—developing elite athletes, mentoring future coaches, and serving as influential advocates for women in football spaces traditionally dominated by men.
 
"Liz and Katie's impact reaches far beyond our sideline," said interim Co-Athletic Director and Dean of Student Life and Services Dr. Donald Anderson. "They have helped elevate NAIA flag football on a national scale while empowering women as leaders, coaches, and competitors. Their legacy at Ottawa includes championship success and meaningful progress for the sport."
 
Their move to the University of Nebraska reflects the rapid growth of flag football across collegiate athletics and the increasing demand for experienced leaders with a proven record of competitive and cultural success.
 
"When we started this program, it was just a belief—a belief from Ottawa University and from a group of student-athletes willing to build something from nothing during a pandemic. Some called it the middle of nowhere, but for us, it became the center of everything," said Head Coach Liz Sowers. "In a state that didn't even know the sport existed, Ottawa University trusted us from the start. These players and this University have impacted me as much as I hope I've impacted them. This journey isn't just about championships—it's about family, resilience, and proving what's possible when people believe in each other."
 
Ottawa University extends sincere appreciation to Liz and Katie Sowers for their contributions to five championship teams, the growth of NAIA flag football, and the advancement of women in sport. Their influence will remain a lasting part of Ottawa University's history and the future of the game.
 
"The Sowers' impact on the University and the women's flag football program—on campus and in the surrounding communities—continues to advance women's sports and a legacy of excellence." said Campus President Dr. Bambi Burgard. "We have already begun the process of succession planning."
 
The Braves are looking to achieve their sixth consecutive National Tournament Championship this spring.