MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Faulkner University is turning to a familiar face as it launches its newest program. The school's athletic department announced Tuesday that Chuck Knapp will serve as head coach of the women's flag football program that begins competition in the 2027-28 academic year. 

"We are beyond thrilled to start Women's Flag Football at Faulkner in 2027-28. We are equally as thrilled to have Coach Knapp get the program started," Vice President of Athletics Reed Sutton said. "He is an experienced coach, educator, and administrator.  He is a man of deep conviction and faith. As an alum, he bleeds Faulkner blue. He already has the respect of our current student body, as well as his teaching and coaching colleagues on faculty and staff. He has hit the ground running at recruiting events and local practices. We are in a rich region of the country for talent. Chuck has a great plan. We have no doubt that he will build a winning program in short order that we are all proud of. Go Eagles!"

"We are excited to launch women's flag football for student-athletes committed to academic excellence, athletic achievement, and Christian character," President Mitch Henry said. "Head Coach Chuck Knapp's extensive collegiate coaching and head coaching experience combined with his track record in developing student-athletes is impressive. His competitive drive matches Faulkner University's rising dominance in Christian collegiate athletics.  Cindy and I can't wait to watch the Lady Eagles catch, run and score."

Knapp is a face almost synonymous with Faulkner already, with over two decades of employment at his alma mater. He previously served in a variety of roles within the Eagles football program from 2007-19, including director of football operations, linebackers coach, defensive line coach and head junior varsity coach. During his time with the program, Knapp was part of two Mid-South Conference championship teams in 2013 and 2014 and worked extensively in recruiting, spiritual life, student-athlete development, eligibility and academic monitoring. Throughout his time at Faulkner, Knapp has coached 19 All-Conference selections, three conference freshmen of the year, an All-American and four Academic All-Conference honorees. 

"I am incredibly honored and excited to serve as the first women's flag football head coach at Faulkner University," Knapp said. "Being entrusted with building this program from the ground up is a tremendous responsibility and an opportunity that means a great deal to me and my family. Faulkner has a proud tradition in women's athletics, built by generations of outstanding student-athletes and coaches who have represented this university with excellence in the classroom and on the fields and courts of play. Adding women's flag football to this legacy is an honor of a lifetime."

Knapp served as the athletic director and head football coach at Georgia Christian School from 2019-24. During his tenure, he helped grow the school's football program from 14 players to more than 32 players in two years. His teams reached the GIAA playoffs in each of his five seasons and made back-to-back semifinal appearances. As Athletic Director, he helped launch flag football at GCS where the Lady Generals made the state championship game in just their second season as a program.

A 1999 graduate of Faulkner, Knapp earned a bachelor's degree in history and is currently pursuing a master's degree in sports psychology at the university, with an anticipated completion date of 2027.

Prospective student-athletes interested in joining the Faulkner flag football program can complete the recruiting questionnaire for more information.