GU Secures First Postseason Win in Program History, Advance to KCAC Semis

OTTAWA, Kansas — The Graceland University women's flag football team secured a 24-6 victory over Midland University on Friday at AdventHealth Field, marking the first postseason win in program history and advancing the Yellowjackets to the KCAC Conference Tournament semifinals.

Graceland (10-9) executed efficiently on both sides of the ball, capitalizing on timely completions, defensive takeaways and red-zone execution. Quarterback Sierra Flores led the offensive unit with multiple touchdown passes, connecting with Ahmari Byrd and Makayla Brown on scoring drives that showcased effective route timing and spacing in the passing game.

The Yellowjackets opened scoring early in the first quarter when Flores delivered a touchdown strike to Byrd. Graceland extended its lead with another passing touchdown late in the quarter, establishing early control with a 12-0 advantage. Midland responded in the second quarter with a touchdown pass of its own, but the Yellowjackets maintained momentum through disciplined defensive flag pulling and containment.

In the second half, Graceland's offense continued to execute in short-yardage passing situations, with Flores again finding Brown for a touchdown to push the lead to 18-6. The defining moment came late in the contest when Delaney Mondino secured an interception return for a touchdown, sealing the outcome and highlighting the Yellowjackets' defensive awareness in zone coverage.

"I'm super proud how this team has come together to make history when it mattered most," said head coach Aaron Richardson. "This group has overcome so much adversity to get to where we are today and we're excited to have earned another opportunity to play for one another."

Graceland finished with a balanced offensive approach, emphasizing high-percentage passing concepts, quick releases and yards after catch, while limiting Midland's scoring opportunities through effective defensive reads and pursuit angles. The Yellowjackets also demonstrated discipline in turnover margin, a key factor in postseason success.

The win propels Graceland into a semifinal matchup against defending national champion Ottawa University, which enters the contest with a 12-1 record. The matchup presents a significant test, as Ottawa's defense has consistently limited explosive plays while maintaining pressure in pass-rush situations.

Graceland will face Ottawa in KCAC Conference Tournament semifinal No. 1 on Saturday, April 25, at 11 a.m. in Ottawa, Kansas. The game will take place at AdventHealth Field, where both teams will compete for a berth in the conference championship game.

The Yellowjackets enter the semifinal with momentum, seeking to build on their historic postseason breakthrough while continuing to refine execution in key areas, including third-down conversions, defensive coverage rotations and ball security.

For more information on Graceland flag football and all Yellowjackets athletics, visit GUjackets.com.