Multiple Saints Earn NAIA Scholar-Athlete Honors

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) proudly announces the 2025 NAIA Scholar-Athletes for fall sports. This honor recognizes student-athletes in each of the fall sports who have excelled academically, including football, men’s cross country, men’s soccer, women’s cross country, women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.

To qualify as an NAIA Scholar-Athlete, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, appear on the eligibility certificate for their sport, and have attended their institution for at least one full year. This year, the list features an impressive number of student-athletes who have met these rigorous standards.

Women’s soccer highlights the field with 1,606 scholar-athletes, ahead of men’s soccer (1,345), women’s volleyball (1,231), football (1,129), women’s cross country (617) and men’s cross country (558). Twenty-nine Saints across these sports received NAIA Scholar-Athlete Honors.

Angela Garcia Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Anisia Serrano Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Cade Ryan Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Carly Dossett Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Chloe Conn Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Cristian Govea Mireles Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Danilo Marinho de Figueiredo Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Eleonora Diversi Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Gabrielle Deleon Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Gabrielle Pace Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Grace Reed Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Jordan Betterton Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Juan Hernandez Salamanca Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Julia Anguiano Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Kaitlyn Olivas Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Katherine Delgadillo Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Kevin Zamora Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Kira Brown Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Lauren Reynard Our Lady of the Lake University Graduate Student Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Leah Tapia Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Madison Perez Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Cross Country Red River Athletic Conference
Mariana Medrano Sanchez Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Mia Perez Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Mikayla Arce Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Romualdo Gonzalez Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Men’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Sabastian Moreno Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Men’s Cross Country Red River Athletic Conference
Sadie Rios Our Lady of the Lake University Sophomore Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference
Samantha Watson Our Lady of the Lake University Junior Women’s Volleyball Red River Athletic Conference
Sara Garza Our Lady of the Lake University Senior Women’s Soccer Red River Athletic Conference

Saints Volleyball Captures Multiple RRAC Awards

The 2025 Red River Athletic Conference volleyball season once again highlighted the excellence and competitive spirit of the Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) Saints. While the conference’s postseason awards featured strong representation from several programs, OLLU distinguished itself with both individual accolades and collective recognition, underscoring the depth and discipline that define the Saints volleyball tradition.

At the forefront was senior setter Lauren Reynard, who was named the RRAC Setter of the Year and earned a place on the All-Conference First Team. Reynard’s leadership, precision, and consistency on the court were instrumental in guiding OLLU’s offense. A repeat first-team selection, she demonstrated exceptional command of the game, orchestrating plays with composure and elevating the performance of those around her. Her award represents not only personal excellence but also the high standard of technical execution that OLLU volleyball continues to uphold.

Joining Reynard on the First Team were senior outside hitter Mia Francis, sophomore right-side hitter Anais Velazquez, and junior defensive specialist Chanisty Villarreal-Bermea. Each contributed significantly to the Saints success throughout the season. Francis, a dominant presence at the net, delivered consistent offensive power and senior leadership. Velazquez brought versatility and offensive balance, while Villarreal-Bermea anchored the Saints backcourt defense with precision and poise. Collectively, their performances embodied the teamwork and determination that have become hallmarks of OLLU’s program.

The Saints also demonstrated exceptional depth with several additional honorees on the All-Conference Second Team. Sophomore middle blocker Nicole Bir, freshman defensive specialist Sophia Castillo, and freshman middle blocker Bailey Scott all earned recognition for their impact on both sides of the court. Their inclusion reflects not only the immediate contributions of younger players but also the program’s strong foundation for sustained success. Freshman outside hitter Clarissa Rodriguez earned Honorable Mention, further underscoring the talent and promise within OLLU’s roster.

Beyond athletic performance, OLLU continued to exemplify the core values of the NAIA’s Champions of Character program. Junior Yridia Flores represented the Saints on the Champions of Character Team, recognized for her integrity, sportsmanship, and commitment to excellence both on and off the court.

OLLU’s representation across every level of recognition speaks to the balance, depth, and competitive integrity of the Saints’ program. The 2025 season reaffirmed OLLU’s position as one of the RRAC’s most respected and consistent volleyball programs, a team defined not only by its athletic achievements but also by its leadership, unity, and character.

As the Saints look ahead to the RRAC tournament play tomorrow, their 2025 campaign stands as a testament to the program’s ongoing pursuit of excellence. With veteran leadership and emerging talent, OLLU volleyball continues to embody the university’s mission of competitive greatness grounded in integrity, teamwork, and faith.

The Showman Era Begins, Saints Capture First Win Of The Season

The Our Lady of the Lake University women’s basketball team delivered a commanding performance in a 65–45 victory over Huston-Tillotson, showcasing efficient offense, strong rebounding, and balanced team play from start to finish.

Senior guard Samantha Fields led the way for the Saints with a standout performance, scoring a game-high 22 points on 9-of-13 shooting, including three makes from beyond the arc. Fields steady scoring and on-ball defense set the tone for OLLU, as she also recorded two steals and committed just one foul across 37 minutes of play.

Forward Alexandra Westerdijk Martin provided a powerful presence in the paint, finishing with 12 points and a game-high nine rebounds. Her ability to crash the boards on both ends (six offensive rebounds) gave the Saints multiple second-chance opportunities that helped them maintain control throughout the contest. Guard Shayla Dede added 11 points, seven rebounds, and two assists in a strong two-way showing, while freshman forward Zariah Todd contributed five rebounds and four points in 26 minutes.

Off the bench, Isabella Jaramillo delivered an important spark, tallying seven points, seven rebounds, and three assists in 20 minutes. Her efficiency at the free throw line (4-for-4) and active defensive presence helped sustain OLLU’s momentum whenever the starters rested. Aniyah Andrews also added three points and four rebounds, while Amya Miller-Singleton and Anissa Cardona chipped in valuable minutes.

As a team, the Saints shot 44.1 percent from the field and outrebounded Huston-Tillotson 46–26, including a 16–10 edge on the offensive glass. Their defensive intensity forced 16 turnovers and held the Rams to just 27.5 percent shooting overall and 23.5 percent from three-point range.The Rams struggled to find rhythm against OLLU’s tight perimeter defense and physical play in the post.

With the victory, OLLU continued to demonstrate the depth and discipline that have become trademarks of its program. The Saints ability to combine efficient scoring with relentless rebounding and teamwork positions them as a formidable force as the season progresses. The Saints will be back in action

OLLU Sweeps RRAC Weekly Awards For Second Straight Week

The final RRAC Women’s Soccer Players of the Week were announced today. Our Lady of the Lake (Texas) won both awards – Offensive Player of the Week – Hannah Brookfield and Defensive Player of the Week – London Suarez for Nov. 3-9.

RRAC Offensive Player of the Week – Hannah Brookfield – Our Lady of the Lake University
Graduate student Hannah Brookfield scored two goals against Texas A&M-Victoria. She took two shots, both on goal.

Additional nominees: Genevieve Colon from North American (Texas) and Desiree Narvaez from Texas A&M-Texarkana

RRAC Defensive Player of the Week – London Suarez – Our Lady of the Lake University
Senior keeper London Suarez earned her second consecutive award as she guided her team to a 4-0 shutout over Texas A&M-Victoria. She recorded three saves for the Saints.

Additional nominees: Arely Sarabia from NAU and Layla Anaya from TAMUT

RRAC Notebook:

Desiree Narvaez from TAMUT scored a goal, while taking four shots, four on goal. The Eagles fell to LSU Alexandria 3-2.
Genevieve Colon from NAU took three shots, two on goal, as the Lady Stallions lost to TAMUV.
Senior keeper Arely Serabia from NAU delivered one of her strongest performances of the season, posting 13 saves against TAMUV.
Sophomore keeper Layla Anaya from TAMUT tallied five saves in a 3-2 loss to LSU Alexandria.

RRAC Women’s Soccer Championship Tournament:

The 2025 RRAC Women’s Soccer Championship Tournament is set to continue this week. The semifinal results from earlier today were LSU Shreveport 2-0 over LSU Alexandria and Xavier 3-2 over OLLU. The Pilots and Gold Rush advance to the finals on Nov. 12 at 1 p.m. on the campus of TAMUT.

2025 RRAC Women’s Soccer Weekly Selections:

Date	Offensive	Defensive
Aug. 18-24	Brooklyn Lattier (TAMUT)	Salka Hrafns (OLLU)
Aug. 25-31	Samira Roper (XULA)	Luisa Bella (XULA)
Sept. 1-7	Samira Roper (XULA)	Jamie Noriega (TAMUV)
Sept. 8-14	Eleonora Diversi (OLLU)	Rosa Reyes (TAMUV)
Sept. 15-21	Ayloni Garcia (TAMUV)	Abree Fry (TAMUV)
Sept. 22-28	Desiree Narvaez (TAMUT)	Amelia Thompson ((XULA)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5	Ayloni Garcia (TAMUV)	Jamie Noriega (TAMUV)
Oct. 6-12	Mada Uriarte (LSUS)	Shakiana Dagher (XULA)
Oct. 13-19	Jade Derks (LSUS)	Fenja Leibner (LSUA)
Oct. 20-26	Samira Roper (XULA)	Luisa Bella (XULA)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2	Leah Tapia (OLLU)	London Suarez (OLLU)
Nov. 3-9	Hannah Brookfield (OLLU)	London Suarez (OLLU)

OLLU Dominates Xavier As Saints Look To Repeat

Our Lady of the Lake University delivered a composed and confident performance as they swept Xavier (LA) to earn their place in tomorrow’s championship match. With a steady rhythm that grew stronger as the afternoon progressed, OLLU controlled the match 25–23, 28–26, 25–19, showcasing both resilience under pressure and the offensive balance that has defined their best volleyball this season.

OLLU’s attack was anchored by Anais Velazquez Figueroa, whose 17 kills on a .400 hitting percentage set the tone at the net. Mia Francis added 13 kills of her own, consistently finding ways to score even as rallies tightened. Setter Lauren Reynard guided the offense with precision, recording 38 assists while keeping Xavier’s block off balance. Her distribution allowed multiple hitters to find rhythm, helping OLLU outpace Xavier across all three sets.

Defensively, the Saints were steady and disciplined. Nicole Bir contributed key touches at the net with six block assists, and the back row, led by Reynard, Castillo, and Saldana, absorbed pressure and limited Xavier’s opportunities to sustain momentum. Though Xavier had moments of surge, especially behind the strong hitting of Taylor Parker and Kamea Uitenham, OLLU’s consistency and poise in late-set situations carried them through.

The Saints now advance to tomorrow’s championship match at 1:00 PM, where they will face the winner of Texas A&M–Texarkana and Louisiana Christian. After a controlled and confident semifinal performance, OLLU moves forward with momentum and a clear competitive edge as they prepare for their shot at the title.

OLLU Volleyball Dominates Weekly Awards: Francis and Reynard Lead the Saints Charge

The Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) Saints continue to prove why they’re one of the most competitive programs in the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC). This week, the Saints brought home not one, but two of the conference’s top weekly honors, as senior outside hitter Mia Francis earned RRAC Attacker of the Week and senior setter Lauren Reynard claimed Setter of the Week for their standout performances from Oct. 27–Nov. 2.

The Saints dominance on the court was evident in their two-game series against Xavier University of Louisiana, where both Francis and Reynard showcased leadership, consistency, and championship-level skill.

Mia Francis

For the third time this season, Mia Francis earned the title of Attacker of the Week, a well-deserved recognition for her relentless play and unmatched offensive presence. Francis totaled 30 kills, 12 digs, three blocks, and a service ace in OLLU’s 1-1 split against Xavier. Her performance was nothing short of stellar, as she contributed more total points than any other player on the court across both matches.

Currently ranked sixth in the conference with 190 kills and averaging 3.38 kills per set, Francis continues to be the heartbeat of OLLU’s offensive strategy. Her ability to step up in high-pressure moments has made her one of the most feared attackers in the RRAC.

Lauren Reynard

Complementing Francis firepower is setter Lauren Reynard, whose precision and leadership guided the Saints offense with unmatched efficiency. Reynard posted an incredible 82 assists, leading all setters in the conference for the week, while also adding 20 digs and four service aces to her all-around stat line.

The San Antonio native is not only excelling on a weekly basis, she currently leads the entire RRAC with 598 assists, proving herself as the cornerstone of OLLU’s offensive rhythm. This marks her second Setter of the Week award this season, underscoring her consistency and her critical role in the Saints success.

OLLU Opens RRAC Tournament With Convincing Shutout Victory

The Our Lady of the Lake University women’s soccer team delivered a commanding performance in the opening round of the Red River Athletic Conference Championship, defeating the Texas A&M–Victoria Jaguars 4–0 at home. The Saints displayed composure, precision, and control from start to finish, advancing confidently to the next stage of the tournament.

OLLU struck first when Leah Tapia found the back of the net at 33:33, finishing a well-placed pass from Anisia Serrano. The goal reflected the Saints early dominance in possession and attacking organization, setting the tone for the remainder of the match.

After taking a 1–0 lead into halftime, OLLU extended its advantage early in the second half. At 53:20, midfielder Eleonora Diversi broke free of her marker and scored unassisted, doubling the Saints lead with a strong individual effort. From that point on, OLLU maintained control, limiting the Jaguars to minimal chances while continuing to press forward.

The Saints third goal came in the 77th minute when Hannah Brookfield finished a smooth attacking sequence, converting an assist from Sara Garza to make it 3–0. Brookfield capped off the night with her second goal at 88:37, an unassisted effort that sealed the dominant 4–0 result.

Statistically, OLLU’s superiority was clear. The Saints outshot Texas A&M–Victoria 16–3 and earned seven corner kicks while allowing none. Goalkeeper London Suarez stood firm in net, recording three saves on three shots faced during her 90 minutes of play, securing the clean sheet and anchoring a disciplined defensive effort.

With the victory, OLLU advances to the next round of the RRAC Championship and will travel to Texarkana to face Xavier University at 1:30 p.m. CDT.

Saints Open 2026 Season Ranked 12th After Dominant 47-Win Campaign

The Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) softball team enters the 2026 season ranked No. 12 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Poll, continuing its reputation as one of the nation’s top programs. The Saints are coming off a dominant 47-9 overall record and an impressive 27-1 mark in conference play, capped by another Red River Athletic Conference Championship. Leading the team into a new era is first-year head coach Jody Armijo, who takes over a squad loaded with talent and championship experience. Armijo inherits a program defined by its determination, unity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. After several seasons of national success, the Saints have their sights set high in 2026. Ranked just outside the top ten, OLLU is ready to prove once again that they belong among the NAIA’s elite. With strong leadership and a winning tradition, the Saints are poised to make another deep postseason run.

Saints Make History As OLLU Runners Sweep National Athlete Honors

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) made history this week as two of its standout runners, Isai Moran and Kristen Torres, were named M-F Athletic National Athletes of the Week for November 3 by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. The recognition marked a milestone moment for the Saints, as it was the first time in program history that any OLLU athlete had earned this national honor during the cross country season. Their achievements underscored the school’s growing dominance in the NAIA and the strength of its cross country program.

For Moran, a sophomore from El Paso, the award came on the heels of a commanding victory at the Red River Athletic Conference Championships. He tore through the 8k course in just 24:07.3, leaving the rest of the field a staggering 34 seconds behind. The time help power the OLLU men’s team to its tenth conference title, a testament to the depth and discipline cultivated by the Saints program. Moran’s performance, characterized by his smooth pacing and relentless finish, demonstrated why he’s become the heartbeat of the OLLU men’s squad. His leadership on the course has set the tone for a team that thrives on unity and competitive spirit.

On the women’s side, junior Kristen Torres of San Antonio delivered an equally dominant performance, claiming the individual conference crown with a time of 21:54.7, an 18-second margin over the rest of the competition. Her victory capped an extraordinary team showing, as five of her teammates joined her in the top eight to give OLLU a near-perfect team score of 18 points. Torres’s poise and strength through the Red River course not only highlighted her as one of the NAIA’s top runners but also showcased the incredible synergy within the Saints women’s team. The fact that this is the first time an OLLU female athlete has received national weekly honors makes her achievement even more historic, setting a new standard for future Saints to follow.

The recognition of both Moran and Torres in the same week speaks volumes about the trajectory of OLLU’s cross country program. Once viewed as an emerging force, the Saints have now firmly established themselves as a nationally acclaimed team year after year. Their success reflects not only individual excellence but also a culture of hard work, belief, and community, values that define the OLLU athletic tradition. With championship season in full swing, the Saints recent accomplishments signal that they are more than ready to compete on the biggest stage in the NAIA.

OLLU’s Tapia and Suarez Shine as RRAC Players of the Week

The Our Lady of the Lake University women’s soccer team continues to prove why it’s one of the most dominant programs in the Red River Athletic Conference, as two Saints earned top honors this week. Junior forward Leah Tapia was named RRAC Offensive Player of the Week, while senior goalkeeper London Suarez claimed RRAC Defensive Player of the Week for their outstanding performances from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2.

Tapia was electric on the field, leading OLLU to three impressive victories over Texas A&M–Victoria, Texas College, and Texas A&M–San Antonio. She scored four goals and added three assists across those matches, consistently finding ways to lift her team and energize the Saints attack. With eight shots, six on target, Tapia’s precision and confidence in front of goal were unmatched. Her season totals now stand at seven goals and eleven assists, making her one of the conference’s most dangerous offensive threats alongside teammate Eleonora Diversi. Her creativity, teamwork, and relentless drive have become defining traits of OLLU’s high-powered offense this season.

While Tapia’s scoring lit up the scoreboard, it was Suarez’s calm command in goal that kept opponents frustrated. The senior keeper delivered two shutouts against A&M–Victoria and Texas College and added three crucial saves throughout the week, including in the Saints hard-fought 3–2 win over A&M–San Antonio. With 17 saves this season, Suarez continues to be the backbone of OLLU’s defense, guiding her teammates with poise and leadership. Her ability to stay composed under pressure has been vital to the Saints success.

Both Tapia and Suarez embody the spirit and determination that define OLLU women’s soccer. Their weekly honors are not only a reflection of their individual excellence but also of the team’s unity and relentless work ethic. The Saints have built a culture of winning through dedication, trust, and belief in one another, a culture that continues to deliver results week after week.