Bridgeport's Interim School Superintendent, Dr. Royce Avery, gathered with top city officials at the Harding High School football field Tuesday afternoon to make what he called "a historic announcement."

"Bridgeport Public Schools are partnering with the New York Giants to bring a first-of-its kind girls flag football program to Bridgeport - and as the father of three young ladies myself, I think it's vital that we bring such great opportunities equally to everyone," Avery said.

Dee Fludd, of the Northeast Flag Football League, said his longtime association with New York Giants owner John Mara offered the opening Bridgeport needed to get a female flag football program going in the city.

"Mr. Mara has long wanted to bring this wonderful opportunity to Bridgeport - and the timing was perfect. There has never before been so much interest in getting such a ln amazing effort off the ground; and I think it's great - and long overdue," Fludd said.

The Giants will lend the team's brand and experience to the girl's flag football program, helping to make it a success, Fludd said.

Girls 13 to 18 who live in Bridgeport are invited to a flag football "jamboree" at Seaside Park on June 7 to sample the sport and learn more about the program, Fludd said.