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In a heartwarming moment during Pride Month, we can all appreciate the Buffalo Bills just a little bit more as they support a local chapter of the National Gay Flag Football League (NGFFL). Some people would say the quantity and content of the backlash the Bills are facing for supporting the NGFFL is surprising in 2024. Let’s get into this amazing step by the NFL franchise for our third edition of LGBTQ+ Pride Month content this June.
The National Gay Flag Football League
We just discussed the National Gay Flag Football League in the last edition of our LGBTQ+ Pride Month content here. While you’re reading other articles, read about the first HBCU Division 1 college player to come out as gay here. Who knew our coverage of the NGFFL would be so timely? What an exciting time for the NFL and the NGFFL!
As a quick refresher, the NGFFL non-profit was established in 2002. They currently are the ‘umbrella’ of sorts over 26 affiliate leagues in America and Canada. These leagues have over 250 teams and 4,000 athletes. They have yearly events, volunteer in the community, and donate to good causes. The league also has many sponsors and even received a grant from the Bill Belichick Foundation (read about Belichick and his new girlfriend here).
The Buffalo Bills Support The NGFFL
Two days ago, the NGFFL and Buffalo Bills made a joint announcement about the Bills helping sponsor a local league on Instagram. You don’t want to miss it because the Buffalo logo is in New Progress Pride Flag colors and is really pulling off the look. Buffalo Bills VP of Community was quoted as saying, “Through our sponsorship, we are looking forward to expanding the impact of the NGFFL in our community.” An exciting time in the franchise’s history!
The Buffalo Bills are teaming up with the NGFFL to help establish a new chapter in the Buffalo, New York, area. There are already teams in 27 cities across the United States, but they are new to Buffalo. The Bills are joining ranks along with other NFL franchises like the New York Giants, New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, Washington Commanders, and Chicago Bears. They also support their local NGFFL leagues and teams.
Surprising Backlash Against The Bills
Some famous individuals have failed to cope with this new, exciting partnership. Most notably, Rob Schmitt, the host at Newsmax, had a rant for the ages, including the fact that he wants to go find his own country. I can’t guarantee an entire country but here are some private islands you may find more amenable to shout at the clouds at.
Commentator Sage Steele wanted to know if straight men were allowed to play in the NGFFL since gay men can play in the NFL. As long as they hide their true identity until they retire, or never play again after coming out, of course. Thankfully, a NGFFL-affiliated individual responded thoughtfully. There there will be no ‘tests’ for orientation and everyone is welcome to play. Thank goodness we established that fact.
In response to these kinds of comments on Instagram, we also heard positivity. Cyd Zeigler from Outsports is enthused about this partnership. Tyler Schrodt, founder of eSports company EGF, had this to say: “The replies to this announcement are good examples of why something like this is important. Proud of my home city and the Bills.” We’re proud of you, Tyler, the NGFFL, and the Buffalo Bills!
