In addition to an MHSAA Class 5A state championship, the Neshoba Central fast-pitch softball team can add a national championship to its accolades.

The Lady Rockets were the No. 1 team in the final USA Today Sports/NFCA High School Super 25 poll, released Thursday morning. During the course of the season, the Lady Rockets earned a ranking of No. 1 in the softball standings, and after sweeping Pearl River Central in the Class 5A championship series and posting a 34-0 record, they never lost that position. Neshoba Central held its No. 1 ranking for eight straight weeks, according to USA Today.

“That’s a very big deal,” Neshoba Centra softball coach Trae Embry said. “It’s a great honor for our coaches, kids, administration and school. It’s great recognition, and it’s proof that hard work does pay off. It’s something we’re very proud of, to have a season like that and be recognized for it.”