Life University Athletics

MARIETTA, Ga. - Making its program debut, the Life University women's flag football team opened its inaugural 2024 season with a thrilling 12-0 victory over Point University.

"I'm extremely proud of these ladies! They have overcome a lot to be here and their resilience and dedication to this program led the way tonight in our first victory in school history," said Head Coach Zack Desmarais.

The Running Eagles scored both of their touchdowns in the first half, with a short three-yard grab from Lisset Fernanda Ruiz-Franco serving as the first score for Life U's newest program, putting the Running Eagles on the board in the second quarter.

The Running Eagles were then unable to convert their 1-pt. conversion, but quickly scored again minutes later as they forced a quick three-and-out to receive the ball in prime field position after their first TD.

Then, after a small return on the punt that strategically set the Running Eagles up with just a few yards to go for the first down marker, a successful second first down carry put Life U in the middle third on first down. A huge 15-yard completion from K'Myah Graves to Akira Brathwaite was converted on second down as the Running Eagles continued to march down the field. Again in prime position to cut into the next third with downs to spare, a short completion from Graves to Ruiz-Franco delivered another first down, setting up a 1st and goal from just inside the 20 yard line.

The next play was another completed pass for Life U, this time Jala Wright going for eight yards. Now, 2nd and goal, from the Point twelve yard-line, Graves kept the ball herself, rushing for the program's first TD on the ground, 12-0. The Life U defense held strong for the remainder of the contest, opening their 2024 campaign with a win on the Upper Field.

Graves led the team with 111 total yards and a touchdown, also leading the team in rushing yards as 53 of her 111 came from the ground game. Lisset Fernanda Ruiz-Franco led the team in targets and completions, hauling in all six of her targets, claiming a touchdown and leading the team in reception yards.

Defensively, Makayla Morgan and Mariah Hodges led the team in flag pulls, combining for 13. Altierra Gooch and Brathwaite were sensational in coverage all evening as Gooch hauled in three interceptions while Brathwaite brought one in.

A full list of stats can be found, HERE.

Up next, the Running Eagles remain at home for another SUN Conference contest as they face the Eagles from Reinhardt University tomorrow, February 23rd at 7 pm.