Key West to Welcome International Flag Football Teams to 33rd Kelly McGillis Classic

International teams of women and girls are to unite in Key West for adrenaline-charged sports matches and associated activities Tuesday through Monday, Jan. 21-27, during the 33rd annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Women’s & Girls’ Flag Football Championship. 

Named for and endorsed by the Golden Globe–winning actress, director and former Key West resident who starred in “Top Gun” and “Witness,” the championship includes three days of competition paired with pre- and post-tournament team-building activities and gatherings. 

More than 30 teams from countries including the United States, El Salvador, Morocco, Guatemala and Mexico are expected to participate, said Diane Beruldsen, president and founder of the International Women’s Flag Football Association that presents the tournament. 

The event attracts players ranging from 8 years old to seniors who compete in multiple divisions, develop their skills during flag football clinics and enjoy camaraderie during contests, parties and other social events.

Special guests include Negar Hassanzadeh, an acclaimed Iranian actress and producer, who plans to film the week’s activities for a documentary production.

Following three days of clinics and islandwide festivities for players, the tournament’s opening ceremony is slated for 4:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at the Half Shell Raw Bar, 231 Margaret St. 

Kelly’s Players Parade, scheduled just after the ceremony, is to feature tournament teams proceeding along Key West’s renowned Duval Street and seaport area. Players typically wear team uniforms or costumes and display their country or state flags or team banners in the lively procession, which also includes floats and marching bands. 

The official mandatory registration party follows at 8 p.m. at the Bourbon St. Pub, 724 Duval St.

Games are to begin at 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 24, and 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 25-26, at Wicker Field Sports Complex, 3155 Flagler Ave. The competition is to culminate Sunday afternoon with hard-fought playoffs.

An awards event for juniors’ and girls’ teams is to follow the final game at Wicker Field. Awards for women’s division champions are to be presented during a Sunday night dinner at El Siboney, 5501 5th St. on Stock Island.

Clinics and social events Monday, Jan. 27, are to round out the week’s roster. 

Viewing of all games and activities, including clinics on how to play and officiate flag football, is open to the public free of charge.

Event information: iwffa.com/kmc-2025/