Quietly, but not gently, Lindenwood's women's team has hit opponents hard in the opening weeks of the fall.

Last weekend was the Lions' coming out party. After playing several club teams, and winning, Lindenwood slammed Central Washington 60-0. Leading the way was our women's college Player of the Week, Joyce Taufa.

Taufa scored four tries in the game, and proved why she's been worthy of being chosen for the USA National Team for this fall.

The Kahuku HS (Hawaii) product is a superb flanker but may track as a hooker at the higher level (translation: she's not particularly tall). But she's rocketed upward quickly, having attended just one national team camp before being picked.

"She is a tenacious defender and aggressive ball runner," said Lindenwood head coach Billy Nicholas. "She is also one of our hardest workers and consistently leads by example."

Seems like a good choice to us.