INDIANAPOLIS --- Over the last 31 years, the NCAA has awarded the Woman of the Year distinction to honor the "academic achievements, athletics excellence, community service and leadership of outstanding female college athletes." This year's Biola nominee is Kayla Neff.

Neff embodies all four key components of the NCAA Woman of the Year award and represents Biola perfectly.

The BU catcher was the quintessential leader for a historic run from the softball program in 2021. The senior led the lineup on the way to a West Regional Championship and an appearance in the NCAA DII National Championship.

Accolades followed the stellar campaign, including All-PacWest First Team, NFCA West All-Region Second Team, D2CCA All-West Region Second Team and CoSIDA Academic All-District recognitions. Neff paired a .347 batting average and seven home runs with a 3.45 grade-point average, showing off her well-rounded success at Biola.

Following her nomination from Biola, Neff is now eligible to become the conference nominee, which will be determined and announced in August.