From Artesia to the Big Leagues: RyLee Crandall’s Journey of Grit and Grace
RyLee Crandall’s story is one of talent, tenacity, and transformation. From her early days in Artesia, New Mexico, to the national stage of NCAA Division I softball, she has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the field.
🌟 High School Achievements
At Artesia High School, RyLee was a force to be reckoned with. She led the Lady Bulldogs to three consecutive state championships and was honored as the 2021 Gatorade New Mexico Softball Player of the Year. Her high school career was marked by an astonishing 0.50 ERA and 431 strikeouts over 253.1 innings pitched. Beyond her athletic prowess, RyLee was an active member of her school’s student council and dedicated time to community service through her church youth group and as a youth softball coach.
🏅 Cecil Lynn Scholarship Recipient
In 2022, RyLee was honored as one of the inaugural recipients of the Lt. Colonel Cecil A. Lynn Jr. Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship, established by the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA), recognizes student-athletes who exhibit exceptional leadership and commitment to their communities.
RyLee expressed her gratitude, stating:
🐻 Baylor University Highlights
RyLee continued her softball journey at Baylor University, where she made an immediate impact. As a freshman, she earned a spot on the All-Big 12 Freshman Team and was named Big 12 Pitcher of the Week after leading Baylor to a sweep over No. 5 Texas with two complete-game victories.
In her sophomore year, she maintained a 3.20 ERA over 155.1 innings, recording 112 strikeouts and helping the Bears reach the NCAA Super Regionals.
🧡 Transition to Oklahoma State University
In 2024, RyLee transferred to Oklahoma State University, bringing her experience and skill to the Cowgirls’ pitching staff. She continued to excel, notably throwing six scoreless innings in a 5-0 victory over Utah on Senior Day. Her presence has been a significant asset to the team as they aim for national championship aspirations.
RyLee Crandall’s journey from a standout high school athlete to a collegiate softball star exemplifies dedication, resilience, and leadership. Her achievements on the field are matched by her commitment to community and personal growth, making her a true role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.
🔗 Source Links
Gatorade Player of the Year:
https://playeroftheyear.gatorade.com/poy/assets/writable/64776/2021_SB_RCrandall%20.pdfNMAA Scholarship Announcement:
https://www.nmact.org/2022/08/nmaa-commemorates-hall-of-fame-official-with-memorial-scholarship-and-flipping-coin/Texas Glory Fastpitch Announcement:
https://www.facebook.com/TexasGloryFastpitch/posts/baylors-rylee-crandall-22-artesia-earns-the-lt-col-cecil-a-lynn-jr-memorial-scho/2957584431206350/La Daily Post – Scholarship Feature:
https://ladailypost.com/nmaa-commemorates-hall-of-fame-official-lt-colonel-cecil-a-lynn-jr-with-scholarship-and-coin/Oklahoma State Softball News – Signing Announcement:
https://okstate.com/news/2024/6/14/standout-pitcher-rylee-crandall-signs-with-cowgirl-softballSenior Day Win Over Utah:
https://okstate.com/news/2025/5/3/cowgirl-softball-shuts-out-utah-on-senior-dayPFB – Transfer Story:
https://pistolsfiringblog.com/baylor-transfer-pitcher-rylee-crandall-commits-to-oklahoma-state/YouTube Highlight Video (optional):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDp7sJRRfxY