Louisville, Ky. - Central Methodist freshman Mykala Johnico is one of six finalists in contention for the 2022 Schutt Sports/NFCA NAIA Freshman of the Year award, announced by the NFCA Wednesday afternoon. 

The award, which is selected by the NFCA NAIA All-America Committee, honors the outstanding athletic achievements among freshman softball student-athletes throughout the NAIA.

Johnico represents Region V and is joined by; Central Baptist's Savannah Sanford (Region I), Southeastern's Riley Sanders (Region II), Bellevue's (Neb.) Reese Floro (Region III), Science & Arts of Oklahoma's Sophie Williams (Region IV), and Marian's Olivia Stunkel (Region VI). 

The native of Topeka, Kan. has had a remarkable freshman campaign, tallying a perfect 16-0 record through 17 starts including two saves. 

Through 114.1 innings of work, Johnico has recorded a 1.16 earned run average and 170 total strikeouts, averaging more than 10 K's/seven innings. In addition, she has thrown three no-hitters and been twice named Heart Pitcher of the Week.

For her efforts during confernece play, Johnico was tabbed as the Heart Freshman of the Year. 

The 2022 Schutt Sports/NFCA NAIA Freshman of the Year award will be announced Wednesday, June 8. 

To view the NFCA release on this year's finalists, please click here. 

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