Heyl Breaks Single-Season Win Record; Arnold Breaks Single-Season RBI Record
NICEVILLE, Fla. – Sister Arnold's and Cailyn Heyl's stellar performances propelled Northwest Florida State to a resounding 15-0 victory over Tallahassee on Tuesday.
Arnold drove in four runs on three hits, including a powerful home run to center field in the fourth inning that brought in three runs. She also singled in the second inning, adding another run to the scoreboard. Pitcher Callyn Heyl secured the win for Northwest Florida State, delivering a stellar performance with zero hits and zero runs allowed over five innings, striking out five and walking one.
Arnold's exceptional performance today not only secured the win but also etched her name in the Raiders' history books. With her four RBIs, she now stands as the Raiders' new single-season RBI leader, totaling an impressive 72 for the year. This achievement surpasses Abby Sulte's previous record of 68 set back in 2021.
Adding to the milestone moments, Cailyn Heyl also made history on the field today. Her outstanding pitching performance earned her the 29th win of the year, making her an undefeated 29-0 for the season. This accomplishment breaks the Raiders' single-season wins record for a pitcher, surpassing Julia Petty's previous record of 28 wins set just last season.
The game started with Northwest Florida taking the lead in the bottom of the first inning. Britt Bourgoyne's triple drove in three runs, followed by Autumn Vessier's groundout, bringing in one more run. The lead expanded to 7-0 in the second inning, with Arnold's single and Christina Mason's homer contributing to the run tally.
In the third inning, the Raiders added five more runs on six hits. Hayden Andrews, Ashlyn Shirah, and Vessier each contributed with hits, extending the lead further. Arnold's second home run of the game in the fourth inning added three more runs to the total.
Jolee Camp started for the Eagles but struggled against the Raiders' offense, allowing 14 hits and 15 runs over four innings.
Northwest Florida's offense was dominant, amassing 14 hits in the game. Andrews and Arnold stood out with three hits each, while Bourgoyne and Mason also contributed multiple hits. Andrews showcased her speed with two stolen bases, as Northwest Florida stole three bases in total. The team's defense was solid, turning one double play and committing no errors, with Andrews leading in fielding chances with seven opportunities.
The Raiders are now 49-3 on the year as they approach the final stretch of the regular season before the FCSAA State/Region VIII Tournament in May. Saturday will be the Raiders' final home game for 2024 as they prepare to honor nine sophomores before the game.