Gracyn Needle named Palm Beach 4A-1A player of the year for 2026

Gracyn Needle, a junior at King’s Academy, has been named the 4A-1A player of the year for 2026. This marks her second consecutive year receiving the award, following a notable season where she recorded 11 home runs and improved her batting average to.667. Needle showcased exceptional skills, including 30 walks and only one strikeout, leading to a remarkable OPS of 2.251. In addition to her offensive accomplishments, she contributed 12 stolen bases. Needle expressed pride in helping her team secure the district championship this year. She is committed to play for Tennessee once she finishes her senior year at King’s Academy.

• 12:33 AMYahoo Sports — Palm Beach 4A-1A softball player of the year: Gracyn Needle, King’s Academy junior