Girls Flag Football Comes to AQ 20 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026 school news Something new—and history-making—is coming to Aquinas this spring. For the rst time ever, Aquinas will launch a Girls Flag Football program, opening the door for young women to take the eld, build new skills, and represent the Lady Irish in an exciting, fast-paced sport that’s gaining momentum across New York State and beyond. This spring season is open to students in grades 9–12, the new varsity team will consist of up to 20 players, o ering a competitive and close-knit environment where athletes can grow together, challenge themselves, and make AQ history. At the helm of this new chapter is Coach Chris Urban, a veteran football coach and longtime educator with deep roots in Catholic education. A physical education teacher for 28 years, Urban brings a wealth of experience, energy, and leadership to the program. Varsity Football Coach Chris Battaglia ’78 is supporting the team as well, whose experience at AQ continues to o er valuable insight. Coach Urban is also no stranger to the AQ community. His daughter, Sami Urban ’31, is a current middle school student, and his wife, Melissa Masters Urban ’96, was inducted into the Aquinas Hall of Fame this fall 2025 for her legacy and accomplishments in cheerleading. “I’m beyond excited to be named as Aquinas’ Head Coach of its brand-new Varsity Flag Football program!” Urban shared. “Flag football has exploded in popularity—it’s fast, competitive, and fun—and I can’t wait to bring that excitement to Aquinas. Together, we’ll build a program that’s all about teamwork, growth, and school pride. Let’s get ready for something special. Go Irish!” Coach Urban’s impressive resume speaks for itself. He coached football at Webster Schroeder and McQuaid Jesuit, leading teams to multiple Section V Championships and two New York State titles, and also served as the girl’s ag football coach at Webster Schroeder. Recognized twice as Section V Coach of the Year, Urban’s coaching philosophy centers on hard work, discipline, and unity— values that align perfectly with Aquinas’ mission of forming well-rounded, faith-driven leaders. As a lifelong advocate for Catholic education, Urban views this opportunity as more than just a new sport. “It’s about giving young women the chance to compete, to lead, and to be part of something from the very beginning,” he said. “That’s the kind of experience that builds con dence on and o the eld.” Girls Flag Football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., but it’s more than a game; it’s a movement—a bold step forward. Come spring, when the whistle blows and the rst play begins, a new legacy will be born on the eld. A legacy that is built on courage, community, and the spirit of something truly special: being a Lady Irish. MEET COACH CHRIS URBAN Born and Raised: Lancaster, NY Education: Master’s in Education @ SUNY Brockport Career: 28 years as a Physical Education teacher at Spry Middle School in Webster, NY COACHING HIGHLIGHTS: • Section V Championships: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009 (Webster Football); 2019, 2021 (Spring & Fall), 2022, 2023 (McQuaid Football); 2025 (Webster Flag Football) • New York State Championships: 2001 & 2002 (Webster Football); 2025 (Webster Flag Football) • New York State Runner-Up: 2003 (Webster Football); 2019 (McQuaid Football) • Section V Coach of the Year: 2008 & 2009 AQUINAS CONNECTION: • Wife, Melissa Masters Urban ’96, 2025 Hall of Fame inductee • Daughter, Sami ’31, current AQ student • Softball Assistant Coach during Aquinas Summer Camps Our junior and senior girls got a taste of ag football during the epic Powderpu Game during Spirit Week Our high school girls get ready for the spring season
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