Three GU Players Earn All-Conference Honors in Inaugural Flag Football Campaign

LAMONI, Iowa — Graceland University is proud to announce that three student-athletes from its women's flag football program have been named to the Kansas Collegiate Athletic (KCA) All-Conference Honorable Mention Team, marking a significant milestone in the program's early development.

Sophomore Shyla Barrios (San Francisco, Calif.) earned honorable mention honors at both running back and utility, a rare dual recognition that highlights her versatility and high-level contribution in multiple roles. Junior center Grace Jensen (Rosemount, Minn.) and freshman Delaney Mondino (Fountain Valley, Calif.) were also recognized with honorable mention nods, rounding out a trio of Yellowjackets who played key roles in Graceland's first full season of competition in the NAIA-sanctioned sport.

Barrios, who lined up primarily as a running back, led Graceland in total rushing yards and was instrumental in both the zone-read and jet sweep components of the Yellowjackets' offensive playbook. Her ability to flex into different formations — including slot receiver, motion back, and quarterback in wildcat sets — earned her the utility recognition from league coaches.

"Shyla was the engine for a lot of what we wanted to do offensively," said head coach Aaron Richardson. "She's explosive with the ball in space, but what set her apart this year was her understanding of how to contribute no matter where we put her on the field. Getting honorable mention in two categories is a big-time credit to her work ethic."

Jensen, a junior who transitioned into the center role during the offseason, anchored an offensive line that provided crucial protection for the Yellowjackets' quick-rhythm passing game. The center position in flag football requires a unique combination of precise snap timing, blocking technique in a no-contact zone, and field awareness. Jensen was praised by the coaching staff throughout the year for her ability to read defensive stunts and adjust protections mid-drive.

"Grace became a stabilizing presence for us," said Richardson. "That center-to-quarterback relationship is the foundation of every drive, and she handled it with poise and discipline."

Mondino, one of the youngest players to earn conference honors this season, made an immediate impact on both sides of the ball. While officially recognized for her contributions on offense, Mondino was also active on special teams and contributed as a rusher and slot defender when needed. Her speed and football IQ made her a natural fit in a fast-paced game that demands versatility from every athlete on the field.

"Delaney's a competitor. She came in as a freshman and didn't blink," said Richardson. "She's the kind of player who'll run five routes in a row, then immediately flip to defense and cover in man. Coaches across the league noticed her — and this recognition reflects that."

The Graceland women's flag football program, launched as part of the NAIA's partnership with the NFL and RCX Sports to grow women's flag football at the collegiate level, completed its inaugural full season competing in the KCA. The conference includes several of the sport's top emerging programs in the Midwest region.

Richardson noted that the team's success in earning three all-conference honors is a sign of progress, and a clear indication of what lies ahead.

"This season was about building a foundation, and these honors show that we're headed in the right direction," he said. "The athletes who earned these recognitions are leaders in how they prepare, perform, and represent the university. I'm proud of every one of them."

As the sport continues to gain traction nationally, the Yellowjackets are committed to advancing both the competitive standard and visibility of women's flag football at Graceland.

"We're not just participating — we're building something here," Richardson added. "And this is just the beginning." For the full list of all KCAC all-conferece nominations, click here.

For more information on Graceland Women's Flag Football and to follow all Yellowjacket athletic programs, visit GUjackets.com.