FRANCHISE-CHANGING MOMENT: ALL-TIME GREAT DESTANIE YARBROUGH SIGNS WITH THE GOLDEN STATE STORM FOR 2027 SEASON
4x WNFC Champion, Multi-Time Pro-Bowler and Former League MVP Returns to Tackle Football to Accelerate Pay-For-Play, Equity, and the Future of Women’s Sports in the Bay Area
OAKLAND, CA — The Golden State Storm today announced a landmark moment in franchise and women’s sports history: the official signing of Destanie Yarbrough, widely regarded as one of the best women’s tackle football players of all time.
A multiple-time Pro-Ball athlete and past League MVP, Yarbrough brings elite dominance, championship pedigree, and unmatched star power to Northern California as the Storm enter their second season in the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC).
Yarbrough’s arrival marks a powerful return to the gridiron following a hiatus after her dominant tenure in Dallas. Known for her game-breaking athletic performance—spanning professional tackle football, Division I collegiate track and field, and professional combat sports—Yarbrough’s decision to join Golden State underscores the franchise’s position as a premier destination for top-tier athletic talent.
“After stepping away from the field, I took time to reflect on what was next for my career and where I could make the biggest impact,” said Destanie Yarbrough. “Seeing what the Golden State Storm built in just their first year made my decision easy. I wanted to return to football not just to win games, but to further accelerate the sport for women, close the equity gap, and champion true pay-for-play opportunities for female athletes. There is no better franchise in the world to accomplish these goals than the Golden State Storm. The energy in Oakland, the vision of ownership, and the dedication to elevating our game is unmatched. I’m ready to put on the helmet and bring a championship home to the Bay.”
A New Standard for Women’s Football
In its inaugural year, the Golden State Storm established itself as a trailblazing force in professional sports. Playing in front of thousands of passionate fans at Laney Stadium, the Storm built a rapidly growing fan base, secured a tier-one portfolio of corporate sponsors, and delivered an unrivaled game-day atmosphere that rivals the energy of elite college football games.
Through a dedicated Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) contract and individual commercial sponsorship support, the Storm are demonstrating their commitment to pioneering financial equity and compensation for women’s tackle football athletes.
Rooted in Community: The Storm Ahead Foundation
Beyond the field, Yarbrough’s signing reinforces the franchise’s commitment to driving community impact through the Storm Ahead Foundation. Designed to bridge the equity gap from grassroots to the pro level, the Foundation’s mission is to provide a comprehensive platform spanning education, access, and wellness—ensuring young girls and women have the resources and pathways to play the game of football across both Flag and Tackle divisions.
“This is a monumental, game-changing moment for our organization, our fans, and the sport as a whole,” said Jake Langner, Owner of the Golden State Storm. “Destanie is not only an all-time legend on the field, but an exceptional leader and human being off of it. To have an athlete of her caliber choose to return to football and join the Storm in our second season is a true testament to the standard we are setting here in Northern California. We are beyond honored to welcome Destanie to our family as we continue to build a lasting dynasty and change the narrative for women’s athletics.”
As the Storm gear up for the 2027 WNFC season, Yarbrough will be featured as the cornerstone of the franchise’s defense and team marketing campaigns.
About the Golden State Storm
The Golden State Storm are Northern California’s premier professional women’s football team competing in the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC). Founded on the principles of equity, power, and excellence, the Storm field premier Tackle and Flag football teams dedicated to competing at the highest level while empowering women and girls across the Bay Area and beyond.
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