Hailey
The Emporia State University Softball Team has scored a big win — not just on the field, but also in the classroom.
On August 7, 2025, the National Fastpitch Coaches’ Association (NFCA) announced that 14 student-athletes from Emporia State received the prestigious Easton/NFCA Division II All-America Scholar-Athlete honors.
The team also earned a spot in the Team GPA award rankings for their outstanding academic performance during the 2024–25 academic year.
Emporia State’s Academic Achievement
Emporia State was recognized as one of only four MIAA softball programs to receive the Team GPA award from the NFCA.
They finished with a 3.640 team GPA, placing them third in the MIAA conference and 32nd in the entire nation. This recognition shows how committed the Hornets are to both their sport and their studies.
What is the NFCA Scholar-Athlete Award?
The Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar-Athlete Award is given to players who have a grade-point average (GPA) of at least 3.5 during the academic year. This honor is awarded by the NFCA to highlight players who excel both academically and athletically.
For the 2024–25 academic year, there were 2,179 individual honorees and 119 teams recognized in NCAA Division II. Coaches from NFCA member schools submit the GPAs and achievements of their athletes for consideration.
MIAA Team GPA Standings for 2025
| School | Team GPA |
|---|---|
| Central Missouri | 3.800 |
| Missouri Southern | 3.647 |
| Emporia State | 3.640 |
| Fort Hays State | 3.440 |
Emporia State’s 2025 NFCA Scholar-Athlete Honorees
Here are the 14 Hornets who earned the Easton/NFCA Scholar-Athlete All-America title for the 2024–25 academic year:
- Avery Brewer – IF, 5′ 9″, Sophomore, L/L
- Taryn Burkhardt
- Addyson Easter
- Brooke Flewelling – IF, 5′ 9″, Sophomore, R/R
- Haley Garnett – INF, 5′ 7″, Graduate Student, R/R
- Jordan Harrison – P/IF, 5′ 10″, Senior, R/R
- Grace McCarty – OF, 5′ 4″, Sophomore, L/L
- Ally Miller – C, 5′ 9″, Sophomore, R/R
- Mallory Moore
- Kinsey Perine
- Gracie Rabe – P/INF, 5′ 7″, Senior, R/R
- Brynley Smith
- Kennedy Topping – IF, 5′ 7″, Sophomore, R/R
- Jayda VanAckeren – P, 5′ 6″, Senior, R/R
- Karli Wehunt – UT, 5′ 5″, Sophomore, R/R
Why This Recognition Matters
This achievement shows that Emporia State’s student-athletes are excelling beyond the softball diamond. Maintaining such a high GPA while balancing intense training, travel for games, and academic responsibilities is no easy feat.
It demonstrates dedication, discipline, and a strong work ethic.
Impact on Future Players
Academic recognition like this can help current players in their careers after college and inspire future players to join the program. It also enhances the reputation of the Emporia State Hornets softball program within the NCAA and among recruiters.
The Emporia State Hornets have proved that academic excellence and athletic talent can go hand in hand. With a 3.640 team GPA and 14 players earning All-America Scholar-Athlete honors, the team has set a strong example for other programs.
Their success in the classroom is just as important as their success on the field, showing that the Hornets truly value education and personal growth.