WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Three student-athletes from the Winston-Salem State University softball team have earned Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) weekly honors for week 1 the leage announced Tuesday evening.

Junior pitcher Jyla Thomas delivered a dominant stretch in the circle for Winston-Salem State and was named CIAA Pitcher of the Week. Highlighted by a complete game performance on February 7 against Benedict, Thomas allowed just four hits while striking out 12 and surrendering only three runs in a 6 to 3 victory. During the period, she recorded five complete games, limited opponents to two or fewer hits in eight appearances, and registered five or more strikeouts in five outings. She also contributed offensively with a .333 batting average and added a single without recording a strikeout. Defensively, she posted a perfect mark with one putout and one assist. 

Freshman Riley Demers powered Winston-Salem State offensively in a sweep at Benedict and was named Offensive Player of the Week. She went 4 for 6 with two singles, two doubles, two RBI, two walks, three runs scored, and a stolen base while not striking out in the series. Demers followed with a 3 for 4 performance that included two singles, a double, and two runs scored. She also excelled defensively with a perfect fielding percentage, totaling 14 putouts, three assists, and contributing to three double plays.

Freshman catcher Kira Bryant made an immediate impact in Winston-Salem State's sweep of Benedict and was named Rookie of the Week. Bryant tallied five hits in seven at bats, drove in four runs, and scored twice during the week. Her offensive production and steady presence behind the plate helped lead the Rams to a strong early season performance.