GULF SHORES, Ala. -- Northeastern State kicked off its season in emphatic fashion, knocking off No. 6-ranked North Georgia, 8-5, at the Gulf Shores Invitational. The win marked a milestone debut for head coach Cassidy Bowen, who notched her first career victory in charge of the RiverHawks.

Third baseman Korynn Tindel delivered a monster performance at the plate, going 3-for-4 with four RBI, including a pair of clutch doubles that helped NSU build a commanding lead. Shortstop Mattison Hamilton added two RBI of her own, and Halle Hance scored twice and reached base three times to keep the offense humming.

Despite allowing 13 hits, the RiverHawks' pitching staff bent but didn't break. Starter Brooke Wyatt went 2.2 innings before giving way to Gracie Turner, who held North Georgia at bay through the middle innings. Tindel later returned to close things out in the circle, sealing the win in a pressure-packed seventh after the Nighthawks rallied for three late runs.

North Georgia (0-1), which made the 2025 NCAA Softball World Series, was led by Marycille Brumby's 4-for-4 day, including a home run and two RBI. The Nighthawks left 10 runners on base and were unable to fully capitalize on their 13-hit afternoon.

Northeastern State (1-0) continues action in Gulf Shores this afternoon with Delta State at 3:15 p.m.