For the third year in a row, Neshoba Central pitcher Aspen Wesley was named the Gatorade Softball Player of the Year in Mississippi, Hudl’s official Twitter account announced Monday morning.

Wesley, a rising senior and Mississippi State commit, ended the season with a .016 ERA, 316 strikeouts and 23 wins to help the Lady Rockets to an undefeated season and an MHSAA Class 5A state championship. She also excelled as a hitter, batting .421 on the season with 31 RBIs, 10 doubles and two home runs.

“It means a lot,” Wesley said via text message. “I don’t know many people who get it three straight years in a row, but I know I couldn’t have done it without God, my parents, coaches and my team. They’ve molded me into the player and person I’ve become. So, winning this… I can’t really explain it. It’s so shocking and very exciting.”

Neshoba Central softball coach Trae Embry said he was proud to see such a deserving player continue to get recognition.

“To me, this is probably the top award she could receive. Her doing it three years in a row just takes it even more special for her,” Embry said. “She’s put in the time and has reaped the benefits. That’s one of the things we talk about (with the team), and she’s living proof that if you put in the work, you’ll reap the benefits. She’s a great person and a great teammate. She’s always the first one to congratulate her team. If she isn’t pitching, she’ll be cheering on her teammates who are on the mound. She’s a terrific young lady that has a very bright future.”