The Early Years: Building Foundations

On Saturday night, April 12, 2003, in front of a crowd of nearly 1,000 fans, Nancy Simonds, owner and then head coach, led St. Louis’s first women's full-contact football team, the SLAM, onto the field at Gateway Tech. Facing the NWFA opponent Kansas City Krunch, the SLAM marked a historic moment with Myrt Davis (current SLAM coach) catching a pass on the first possession for a touchdown. Despite losing that inaugural game in overtime, this debut set the tone for the team's perseverance. The 2003 season concluded with a 3-5 record, marking the only losing season in the team's history.

Rising Challenges and Achievements (2004-2008)

In 2004, the SLAM improved their record to 5-3, narrowly missing the playoffs. The following year, after a rocky 1-3 start, the team rallied to win their final four games, again finishing 5-3. A highlight of 2005 was setting an NWFA scoring record with 102 points against the Indianapolis Saberkatz.

The 2006 season was a turning point, with the SLAM notching a 6-2 regular season record and earning their first playoff berth. They defeated Kentucky Karma in the first round but fell to the Massachusetts Mutiny in the second round. By 2007, the SLAM had strengthened further, finishing 8-2, including a victory over the undefeated Phoenix Prowlers in the playoffs before losing to OKC Lightning.

In 2008, the SLAM boasted an undefeated 8-0 regular season, led by two-time league tackle leader Kelly Kozlen. However, despite this strong performance, the team was defeated by the H-Town Texas Cyclones in the second round of the playoffs. The Cyclones eventually won the NWFA Championship that year.

Transition to the WFA and Championship Glory (2009-2010)

Following the disbandment of the NWFA in late 2008, the SLAM joined the Women's Football Alliance (WFA) in 2009. This marked the beginning of a new era with veteran players like Kelly Kozlen, Myrt Davis, and Pat Riggins stepping up. The SLAM dominated the regular season with a 7-0 record, led by a high-powered offense and staunch defense, securing the top seed in the playoffs.

In the playoffs, the SLAM defeated the Las Vegas Showgirls and Jacksonville Dixie Blues, earning their first trip to the WFA championship game. In a thrilling match against the West Michigan Mayhem, the team came from behind to clinch their first championship with a 21-14 victory. Kelly Kozlen was named the Most Valuable Player of the game, showcasing the team’s relentless spirit and determination.

The momentum continued in 2010, with the SLAM finishing 10-1 and claiming the National Conference – Central Division title. They advanced to the third round of the playoffs before losing to the Columbus Comets.

2016-2019 Triumphs

Between 2016 and 2019, the St. Louis SLAM reigned supreme in the Women's Football Alliance Division 2, securing three consecutive championships during their active seasons. They captured the WFA Division 2 National Championship titles in both 2016 and 2017, took a hiatus in 2018, and made a spectacular comeback in 2019 to win yet another championship.

Following a break due to COVID-19, SLAM returned in 2022, entering the WFA Pro Division. Although they narrowly missed the playoffs that year, they bounced back in 2023, reaching the Pro Division National Championship. Despite being defeated by the Boston Renegades, they finished the season as the American Conference Champions. Head Coach Quincy Davis earned the 2023 Coach of the Year award, while Quarterback Jaime Gaal was named the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year. In 2024, SLAM returned with renewed vigor, ending Boston’s long winning streak during the regular season and triumphing over them in the 2024 WFA Pro Division National Championship. Player Mary Altepeter was named the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year. Player Kerri McMahan was honored as the game MVP, and her game-worn jersey was placed into the National Football Hall of Fame.

Continuing the Legacy

The St. Louis SLAM Women’s Tackle Football team’s journey is a testament to their resilience and commitment to excellence. From their challenging beginnings to their championship triumphs, the SLAM has consistently inspired and empowered women in sports, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community in St. Louis and beyond.