The Detroit Lions are gearing up for their Week 3 regular season game at Ford Field against the Atlanta Falcons (Kickoff at 6 PM). They’ve dubbed it the “Women in Football” game to honour the myriad ways women contribute to football. Comerica Bank is proudly presenting this special event.
Passion for the Cause: A Word from Sheila Hamp
Detroit Lions Principal Owner & Chair Sheila Hamp shared her enthusiasm, “There are few things I am more passionate about than Women in Football. My mother, my sisters, and I are thrilled that our organisation will be the first team to honour the contributions that women have, and are continuing to make, to the game of football on every level. It’s an honour to stand alongside these women not only on this gameday, but every day.”
Showcasing Commitment: The Day’s Agenda
This Sunday, throughout the pregame, halftime, and game, the Lions will show their dedication to promoting women in football — as players, coaches, and leaders. They aim to highlight the vital role women play in advancing the sport.
Pregame Discussions and Highlights
Pregame festivities will feature a panel discussion with individuals from the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons girl’s flag football programs. They will address the importance of inclusiveness in football and the encouragement of more female participation. Notable figures such as NFL Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Sam Rapoport, and Women’s National Football Conference Founder/CEO will join the discussion, with NFL Network’s MJ Acosta-Ruiz moderating.
Co-hosting the Pregame Show: Antoinette Harris and Dannie Rogers
Detroit native Antoinette Harris will co-host the pregame show with Detroit Lions Team Reporter Dannie Rogers. Harris was the first woman to receive a full college football scholarship as a skill position player and aspires to be an NFL analyst and broadcaster.
Special Ceremony: Women in Football Flag Raising
During the National Anthem, Lions Loyal Members will partake in a special Women in Football flag ceremony. Young female athletes from local flag football leagues will stand proudly in front of the Lions sideline.
Halftime Recognition and Awards
The halftime segment will spotlight the Detroit Lions High School Girls Flag Football pilot league. They will reminisce notable moments from the past spring’s games. Each participating team will receive an award and a grant from the Detroit Lions to help grow their girl’s flag football program.
Community Engagement: A Tribute to Michigan Women
The event will honour Michigan women working tirelessly to expand the sport and boost youth participation, especially among girls. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson will represent the State of Michigan’s Task Force on Women in Sports.
Comerica Bank: Championing Women’s Empowerment
As the sponsoring partner of this game day event, Comerica Bank has a history of supporting women, especially in business. Various initiatives like the Women’s Business Symposium and Women’s Technology Employee Resource Group showcase this support.
Accolades and Achievements: Recognition for Commitment
Comerica has received awards such as Forbes Best Employers for Women and Forbes 2022 Best Employers in Michigan for its dedication.
A Partnership for Change
“Behind the leadership of Mrs. Martha Firestone Ford and Sheila Ford Hamp, the Detroit Lions are true trailblazers for women in the game of football and in the community,” said Megan Crespi, Comerica Bank Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “We are honoured to support this special presentation to recognise and highlight the impact made by women every day who are difference-makers, incredible leaders, exceptional mentors, and inspirations of success.”