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Nansemond-Suffolk Academy’s senior pitcher, Marin McGowan, etched her name into the school’s record books on Thursday, recording her 500th career strikeout in a commanding 21-1 victory over Cape Henry Collegiate in the VISAA Division II state semifinal.

McGowan’s milestone came during a dominant performance where she struck out seven batters over 2.2 no-hit innings, leading the Saints to their 16th consecutive win and securing a spot in their sixth straight state championship game.

The Saints’ offense racked up 17 hits. Malli Groves led the charge, going 3-for-5 with a double and two singles. Mackenzie Farrell contributed two hits and three RBIs, while Addy Smith and Zoey Carpenter each added multiple hits.

NSA exploded for eight runs in both the second and third innings, capitalizing on impressive hitting and aggressive base running, including 12 stolen bases.

Reliever Elise Barbour closed out the game, striking out three batters in a scoreless inning.

With the win, NSA advances to the VISAA Division II championship game, aiming for its sixth consecutive state title. The Saints will face Fredericksburg Christian at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 16, at Dinwiddie Sports Complex.