NEW ORLEANS – Friends University junior Tiyna Ridge has earned U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCA) NAIA Women's Athlete of the Week, announced today (Apr. 27).

Having already ran the second fastest 100m time in NAIA history at 11.26, Ridge nearly bested that mark by running 11.28 at Friday's John McDonnell Invite at the University of Arkansas. Ridge bested multiple NCAA D-I, D-II and JUCO competitors in finishing first in the event. She now owns the second and third best times in the NAIA this season in the 100 meter run.

The 100 meters is not Ridge's only national qualification this season, as the Edmond, Okla. native is also tied for third in the NAIA this season in the 200 meter event, running a time of 23.75 at the Falcons' home invitational earlier this month.

Ridge entered the outdoor season with plenty of momentum after recording an NAIA All-America finish and coming within .01 seconds of winning the national championship in the 60 meter dash at the NAIA National meet.

"Tiyna continues to rise to the occasion each time she steps on the track," said Friends track & field head coach Henry Brun. "After a historic race two weeks ago at Arkansas, we decided to head back for another round against some quality DI and DII competition. It's great to see the consistency as we are working on the tiny details these last few weeks before the NAIA meet. The goal is to contend for the title and Tiyna has done a great job all season long. We are excited for her to compete at the KCACs this week and help her team fight for a conference title."

Ridge and the Falcons are getting set to host the KCAC championships on campus at Adair-Austin Stadium starting this Thursday (Apr. 30).

Click HERE for the official USTFCCA release