REDLANDS, Calif. - The University of Redlands is excited to announce the hiring of Tatum Etchegoyen-Springer as the inaugural Head Coach for Women's Flag Football. The addition of this position marks a significant milestone in the university's history, as Redlands is one of the first Southern California institutions to add the highly popular high school sport to its college athletics offerings. Furthermore, with plans to move quickly from club to varsity, women's flag football will become the Bulldogs' 12th women's sport.
"Joining Bulldog Nation as the first-ever women's flag football coach is an incredible honor and a responsibility I don't take lightly," explained Etchegoyen-Springer. "It's about more than just building a team—it's about pioneering a movement, creating opportunities, and setting a standard for the future of women's football. Redlands is stepping up to be a leader in the sport, and I'm excited to be part of that journey. Together, we're not just playing the game—we're changing it."
Etchegoyen-Springer brings direct knowledge and experience to the program, along with a desire to be on the cutting edge of the sport. Since October 2023, she has served as the Head Flag Football Coach at Edison High School, where she has helped to foster the next generation of flag football talent while also sharpening her coaching abilities and overall knowledge of the game. She also led the program to the CIF Semi-Finals. In addition, Etchegoyen-Springer leads multiple teams at the Conquer SoCal Flag Football Club, which is proudly sponsored by the L.A. Chargers. Most notably is her 10u team, which won the NFL Raiders Regional Championship in 2024. This position has allowed her to work with top-tier athletes, which further enhances her competitive coaching skills, as well as develop an extensive network of contacts within the region.
"We are so thrilled to welcome Tatum to the University of Redlands. We are confident that her multifaceted experience and passion for flag football will be instrumental in building a competitive and positive program from the ground up," stated Rachel Roche, Associate Director of Athletics / Senior Woman Administrator.
Etchegoyen-Springer's diverse background extends beyond the football field. Since June 2020, she has worked as a Beach Operations Lead with the City of Huntington Beach, where she plays a crucial role in organizing and overseeing beach-related operations. Her ability to manage logistics and lead various groups highlights her leadership skills.
Finally, Etchegoyen-Springer holds a Bachelor of Honors in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of East London, where she also played football.
Her unique combination of coaching experience, leadership style, and understanding of sports development will set her up for success with the Maroon and Grey.
"As the inaugural head coach, Tatum is ready to lay the foundation for this exciting new women's athletic program that will inspire future student-athletes. Tatum is committed to developing future leaders by focusing on teamwork, sportsmanship, and excellence both on and off the field," commented President Krista Newkirk.
"It is very exciting to have a coach with Tatum's background in women's flag football joining the Bulldogs," explained Suzette Soboti, Chair of the Search Committee and Head Coach for Women's Soccer and Women's Lacrosse. "Her passion and energy are contagious! I look forward to working with this stellar female coach as she builds a new sports team at the University of Redlands into a SCIAC championship program. She is already a Bulldog at heart!"
The University of Redlands community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in its athletic history, under the leadership of Coach Tatum Etchegoyen-Springer, who begins her role on campus on Monday, February 17.
