Samaya Taylor-Jenkins, one of the brightest young talents in flag football, has set her sights on an unprecedented achievement: earning a spot on Team USA for the 2028 Olympic Games. Ranked as the best flag football player in Arizona and 18th nationally, Taylor-Jenkins is not just hoping to be part of history—she plans to make it.
Flag football’s official inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics was announced last year, and Taylor-Jenkins, a dynamic wide receiver, is now focused on the challenge ahead. Having already proven herself on the national stage, the 18-year-old’s career is just beginning, and she’s poised to be part of flag football’s Olympic debut.
From MVP to National Recognition
Taylor-Jenkins’ rise to prominence has been swift and impressive. In 2024, she was named MVP of the 17U Girls Flag National Team, playing a pivotal role in securing a gold medal. Her impact on the field has caught the attention of fans and critics alike, and it’s clear her journey is far from over.
But her national accolades don’t end there. Last fall, she helped lead the Hamilton High School girls flag football team to an undefeated season and a hard-earned 6A state championship—a victory that had eluded the team just the year before. Taylor-Jenkins’ performance on the field was nothing short of spectacular, and for two consecutive years, the Arizona Cardinals recognized her as the Offensive Player of the Year.
“I’m just grateful that people are finally seeing the talent and hard work that girls put into flag football,” she says, reflecting on the increasing visibility of the sport. “It’s amazing to see the recognition girls are getting in flag football right now.”
A Strong Support System
Behind every athlete is a solid support system, and for Taylor-Jenkins, that system is both wide-reaching and deeply personal. Her family has been a constant source of strength, attending every game and cheering her on at each milestone. Her high school coach, Matt Stone, has also played a vital role in her development, helping guide the team to success since Arizona officially sanctioned flag football as a sport two years ago.
“She’s just a natural, and to see her excel at the highest level is incredible,” Stone says. “It’s been a true pleasure to witness her growth, both as a player and as a person. The sky’s the limit for her.”
Vanessa Taylor-Jenkins, Samaya’s mother, shares in the pride and joy of watching her daughter rise to stardom. “When Samaya made the USA team, it was such a proud moment for us. Getting MVP was just the cherry on top. As a mom, it’s the greatest feeling in the world.”
The Road to the Olympics
While Taylor-Jenkins’ accomplishments are numerous, she is fully aware that making the Olympic flag football team will not be easy. She’s up against fierce competition, both nationally and internationally, but she remains focused and determined. If successful, she would likely be one of the youngest players to ever make Team USA for flag football in the Olympics.
But despite the challenge, Taylor-Jenkins is undeterred. “I’m ready for the next step,” she says with quiet confidence. “I’ve worked my whole life to get here, and now it’s time to prove myself on the biggest stage.”
The rise of flag football as a recognized Olympic sport adds another layer of excitement to her already promising career. As flag football continues to grow, particularly among young women, the sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics marks a turning point in its history. For athletes like Taylor-Jenkins, it’s the ultimate goal—to represent not just themselves but a movement of women in sports breaking new ground.
The Future of Flag Football
Taylor-Jenkins’ path is emblematic of flag football’s bright future. The sport, which is gaining momentum across the United States, was officially recognized by the Arizona Interscholastic Association as a sanctioned sport just two years ago. This official recognition has led to a wave of young talent, with players like Taylor-Jenkins showing that flag football is more than just a recreational activity—it’s a sport with competitive edge and Olympic potential.
“Being part of this growth is really exciting,” Taylor-Jenkins says. “The more opportunities we get, the more people will see what we can do on the field. It’s just the beginning.”
As the 2028 Summer Olympics approach, all eyes will be on flag football, and Samaya Taylor-Jenkins will be one of the athletes to watch. She’s not only hoping to make history—she’s ready to be one of its defining figures.
