GREENVILLE, Ill. – Greenville University is thrilled to announce the launch of its new women's flag football program, set to begin competition in the spring of 2027. Women's flag football was named an NCAA Emerging Sport in 2026, and GU is excited for the opportunities the new program will bring.

Marq Pannell was just recently hired as the program's first head coach. Pannell will begin building the roster immediately, focusing on recruiting and developing student-athletes to establish a strong foundation for the Panthers' newest sport.

Pannell brings a diverse background in both education and coaching, most recently serving as an assistant football coach and intervention teacher at Jensen Beach High School in Florida.

In addition to his varsity football experience, Pannell served as an assistant varsity coach and junior varsity head coach for flag football, where he gained valuable experience in the growing sport. His experience directly aligns with the growth and development of Greenville's new program.

Pannell has been part of multiple successful programs, contributing to two district championships, multiple winning seasons, and the development of all-district and all-area athletes. He has also helped teams achieve strong academic success, including top-three rankings in Florida.

A graduate of Mount St. Joseph University, Pannell was a Division III football student-athlete and earned his degree in marketing and management.

With a passion for mentorship and a proven track record of building relationships and developing athletes, Pannell is poised to lead Panther Flag Football into a successful new era.

He and his wife, Jordan have two daughters, Layah and Eliana. 

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to build something special at Greenville University. From the moment we connected, it was clear this is more than just the start of a women's flag football program. It's a place that truly feels like home," Pannell said. "As a husband and father of two daughters, this mission is deeply personal. I'm committed to pouring into our student-athletes, not just as players, but as young women growing in confidence, character, and purpose. We're going to build a program that is competitive, disciplined, and rooted in strong values, while laying the foundation for long-term success and impact."

"Marq's passion for developing student-athletes through sport aligns seamlessly with the mission and values of Greenville University," says Director of Athletics, B.J. Schneck. "His experience in flag football—paired with the relationships he has built through actively promoting the game—positions him uniquely well to lead this program from day one. We're extremely excited to welcome him to the Panther family and to watch him build something meaningful, competitive, and lasting for our student-athletes."