For the second consecutive season, Houston football teams collide as the Houston Energy will be featured in the United Football League’s (UFL) Houston Roughnecks’ home opener against the Memphis Showboats on March 31st at Rice Stadium. The newly formed UFL team from last season’s XFL league has taken significant strides to collaborate between the Houston Energy, transcending conventional boundaries between professional sports teams.
The players of the Houston Energy will be holding the flag for the national anthem in a symbolic gesture of unity and shared sportsmanship. This honor not only elevates the visibility of women’s tackle football but also strengthens the bonds within the Houston football and fan community. Additionally, the Energy will be seizing this opportunity to promote their own home opener on April 27th against the Oklahoma City Lady Force, selling tickets and rallying support as they embark on their quest for a championship ring in the 2024 season.
The synergy between the Houston Energy and the Houston Roughnecks extends beyond this single event. Both teams share a profound connection through their head coaches, Brian Wiggins of the Energy and CJ Johnson of the Roughnecks. Wiggins and Johnson are celebrated not only for their strategic prowess and leadership but also for their parallel paths as former standout wide receivers who have transitioned into coaching legends with impressive winning records. Johnson’s leadership and vision in his prior coaching position with the USFL’s Houston Gamblers have been particularly noted, especially with the recent rebranding and merger within the UFL, which can be read about here.
The Houston Energy’s appearance at the Roughnecks’ home opener is more than a ceremonial act; it is a testament to the inclusive spirit of Houston’s sports culture, celebrating the achievements and aspirations of athletes across gender boundaries. As the Energy prepare to take the field at Wolverine Stadium for their 2024 season, their presence at the Roughnecks’ game is a powerful reminder of the unity and mutual respect that sports can foster.
The March 31st showdown kicks off at 2:00PM Central. Fans of the Energy are encouraged to come early to watch their team take the field for the national anthem preceding the game.
