On Thursday, May 4, 2023, the Niceville High School Eagles emerged victorious in the 6A District 2 Championship Game by defeating the Crestview High School Bulldogs with a score of 4-2.
The Eagles took an early lead, scoring one run in the first inning and adding two more in the third. Crestview managed to get on the board in the fourth inning, but the Eagles’ solid performance kept them ahead. Niceville added another run in the fourth, while Crestview tried to rally with a run in the seventh, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Eagles’ advantage.
Niceville’s offense was led by Kamryn Neely, who had two hits and two RBIs in three plate appearances. Anabelle Shackelford and Macy Kidder also contributed to the win, each notching one RBI. Crestview’s Riley Bowles scored one run and had one RBI, while Alex Carroll contributed with another RBI.
- Sophomore pitcher Emma Sites had an impressive outing for Niceville, pitching a complete game with an ERA of just 1.00. Over seven innings, Sites allowed seven hits, two runs (only one of which was earned), and struck out four batters.
Crestview’s freshmen pitchers, Cambell Toolan and Julian Forrest, faced a challenging lineup from Niceville. Toolan pitched 4 innings, allowing 5 hits, 1 earned run, and striking out 3 batters. Julian Forrest pitched for 2 innings, allowing 3 hits and 3 earned runs.
The game featured solid defensive play, with both teams committing only one error each, keeping the game close and tense. Ultimately, the Niceville Eagles demonstrated their prowess on the field, both offensively and defensively, securing the 6A District 2 Championship.
- With a strong performance from their sophomore pitcher, Emma Sites, and key offensive contributions from Kamryn Neely and Macy Kidder, the Eagles were able to hold off the Crestview Bulldogs and claim victory.