Cardinal Newman girls flag football continued its dominant start to the 2026 season, defeating Casa Grande 46-0 after building a commanding 34-0 halftime lead.
Molly Friedman gains yards after an int.
The victory came one night after the Cardinals opened their season with a 20-0 shutout of Benicia, giving Newman consecutive shutouts to begin its defense of the NCS Division II championship.
Quarterback Nicole Hayeems led the offensive attack against Casa Grande, throwing six touchdown passes and connecting with four different receivers for scores.
Colbie Piehl had a huge night with three touchdown receptions, giving her five touchdown catches through the Cardinals' first two games.
Molly Friedman, Naomi Hayeems and freshman Anaya Kilstrom each added a touchdown reception as Newman raced out to a 34-0 advantage by halftime.
The Cardinal defense was equally impressive and has yet to allow a point this season.
Friedman led the defense with two interceptions, while Clover Chavez and Simone DiSisto each picked off a Casa Grande pass. The four interceptions helped Newman control the game and kept Casa Grande from generating any sustained offensive momentum.
The fast start continues an impressive run for a Cardinal Newman program that went a perfect 24-0 last season and captured the 2025 NCS Division II championship.
After losing several key players from that championship squad, the Cardinals have quickly shown that plenty of talent remains. Returning players have stepped into bigger roles, while newcomers are already making an impact on both sides of the ball.
Through two games, Newman has outscored its opponents 66-0, defeating Benicia 20-0 and Casa Grande 46-0.
For a program coming off an undefeated championship season, the Cardinals have started 2026 exactly where they left off — winning games and keeping opponents off the scoreboard.
