LAKE WALES, Fla. - With the first ever NAIA Flag Football games played, the Royals made their mark on history with a big win over Midland University. 

Warner vs. Midland

The Royals rumbled off to a big win taking the game over Midland 42-8. Dakota Naples stunned the Warriors by completing 22 of 29 passes and throwing for 280 yards. Naples completed 4 TD passes and also scampered into the end zone twice giving her 6 total TD's. 

Mishla Pierre led Royals receivers catching 7 passes totaling 114 yards. Pierre connected twice with Naples in the end zone and their longest single pass connection was for 29 yards. Taitiyana Taylor also caught 7 passes for 43 yards and a long of 18 yards. Jaynah Rodriguez caught 4 passes for 88 yards and held the longest completed pass of the day connecting with Naples for 49 yards and also caught a TD pass. 

Defensively the Royals put on a strong opening performance. Rheamesha Gordon compiled 7 flag pulls including 3 sacks in the game. Mary Presley and Taitiyana Taylor both finished the game with 5 flag pulls each. 

The Royals started their season with a big 42-8 win over the Warriors and solidified their place in NAIA history. 

Warner vs. St. Thomas (Fla.)

The Royals played St. Thomas in a non-conference matchup immediately following the Midland game. It was a much closer game and the Royals fell to the Bobcats 6-13. 

Dakota Naples completed 18 of 33 passes for 139 yards and 1 touchdown. Jaynah Rodriguez led Royal receivers with 6 catches for 68 yards and a TD. The TD connection between Naples and Rodriguez was the lone TD scored for the Royals. 

Defensively, Rheamesha Gordon added to her totals finishing the first two games with 15 tackles and 5 sacks. Dakota Naples, Taitiyana Taylor and Hailey Bulmer all finished the STU game with 3 flag pulls each.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Royals participated in the NAIA historic opening day with Webber International, Midland University and St. Thomas University. Flag Football has officially started in the NAIA and all four teams will forever be remembered as "the First teams".