The Carolina Stars looking to make history on the gridiron
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Carolina Stars Football is making history as a new powerhouse in women’s tackle football, preparing to launch its inaugural season in the American Women’s Football League.
This highly anticipated debut will showcase elite competition and a team of dedicated athletes looking to redefine the landscape of women’s tackle football.
Beyond the action on the field, Carolina Stars Football is deeply committed to community engagement, focusing on mentorship programs, youth development, and volunteer initiatives. Built on the foundation of “Empowerment Through Excellence and Action,” the organization provides opportunities for women athletes to develop their skills, build confidence, and inspire future generations.
Leading the team is Head Coach Tia Hopkins, a trailblazer in women’s football with over 20 years of experience as a player, coach, and team manager. A former defensive lineman for the Miami Fury, she later played multiple positions for the New York Sharks, where she also served as General Manager and Offensive Line Coach. Her leadership helped guide the Sharks to a WFA National Championship and the International Pro Cloud Transatlantic Tournament Championship in 2018, and she was inducted into the AFE Hall of Fame in 2021.
Off the field, Coach Tia, is also a leader in the cybersecurity industry, where she has built a 25-year award-winning career. As the Chief Cyber Resilience Officer at eSentire, an adjunct professor of cybersecurity, and a recognized advocate for diversity in tech, she is committed to mentorship, leadership, and breaking barriers across industries.
