LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Montana State University Billings senior outfielder Marleigh Nieto continued her run of postseason recognition, picking up National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Region First Team honors, as announced by the organization on Friday.
 
The award marks the first career all-region honor for Nieto, who was voted for by the various coaches across the west region's three conferences. Previously named as an All-GNAC First Team selection, Nieto will now move on for All-American consideration.
 
Nieto, a Billings native who just wrapped up her final season with the 'Jackets, finished as the GNAC leader in batting average this season after hitting .450. Nieto would reach base at a .490 clip, while slugging .611 on the year, both numbers ranking inside the top ten in the conference, contributing to her 1.109 OPS, which ranks sixth highest of any GNAC player this season. Nieto would collect a team-high 59 total hits on the year, including 13 doubles, a triple, and two home runs, while scoring 25 runs and driving in 16 RBIs, along with swiping five bags. Nieto would also play strong defense splitting time in the outfield between center and left field, fielding with a 9.23 fielding percentage.