ATLANTA, Ga. (May 6, 2021) - St. Thomas University (STU) Women's Flag Football opened play in the inaugural NAIA Tournament on Thursday afternoon with pool play. The Bobcats lost game one against Ottawa University (KS) 33-13 and followed with a dominant 73-0 victory over Cottey College. 

In the opening game of pool play, Holly Nehar connected with Sun Conference Co-Player of the Year Jada Graham for a 60-yard touchdown reception, putting the score at 19-13 to end the first half. Miranda Ferradaz added the second STU touchdown of the first half, and added an interception. 

Ottawa added two more touchdowns in the second half to take a 33-13 victory. 

The second half of the doubleheader was all Bobcats, as STU cruised to a  73-0 victory over the Comets of Cottey College. Nehar tossed eight touchdowns; Graham scored three touchdowns as a receiver and returned an interception for a touchdown. Tyler Bryant, Ferradaz, Destynne Francois, Shamyia Lewis and Karyssa Dolce all added receiving touchdowns. 

Tiffany Walker recorded two interceptions, including a pick-six, Dejonice Parris (2), Gabriella Santaeugenia (3), and Jahniyah Palmer (3) all recorded multiple quarterback sacks. Mayerli Cayon also returned a punt for a touchdown. 

STU now awaits results for the remaining games today to determine the next bracket.