NIL for High Schoolers Approved. Here’s What Okaloosa Coaches and Boosters Say:

Okaloosa County high school athletes, along with their peers across Florida, can now sign NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals following a unanimous vote by the Florida High School Athletics Association Board. While this new opportunity allows athletes to earn money through endorsements, it comes with specific restrictions and guidelines. Local coaches and boosters, including Crestview High School’s Head Coach and members of the Niceville Quarterback Club, share their perspectives on the potential impact of these changes on high school sports.

Northwest Florida State College Falls Short in National Championship Game Against Blinn College

Northwest Florida State College’s remarkable baseball season concluded with a 12-5 loss to Blinn College in the NJCAA National Championship game. Despite their efforts and strong hitting, the Raiders couldn’t overcome early mistakes and Blinn’s powerful offense. Standout performances from Cade Sadler, Chase Williams, and Jaquae Stewart highlighted the game, with five Raiders named to the All-Tournament team. The Raiders end their season with a 40-15 record, marking a historic achievement for the program.

NWFSC Baseball Closes In On World Series With Statement Win

Colby Jones and the Northwest Florida State Raiders capitalized on the thinner air and higher elevation of Grand Junction, Colorado, to secure a commanding 13-4 win over Shelton State in the NJCAA Baseball Tournament on Monday. Jones’ stellar performance, featuring two home runs and seven RBIs, was pivotal in overturning an early 3-0 deficit and propelling the Raiders further in the tournament.

PHOTO GALLERY: Niceville High School Graduation 2024

Congratulations to the graduates of Niceville High School’s 2024 Class! Starting their journey amid the COVID-19 pandemic, these students have shown resilience and excellence. Their collective achievements include an A rating for Niceville High School, multiple state championships for the Eagle Track Team, and a 1,000-point career milestone for senior basketball player Anna Kimball. From state champions in cheerleading to a memorable performance at the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Class of 2024 leaves a legacy of success and pride.

NWF Raiders Heading to JuCo World Series After Win

Amidst a whirlwind of athleticism and strategic brilliance, the Northwest Florida Raiders triumphed in a spectacular showdown against Chipola, securing their first NJCAA South Atlantic District Championship since 2015. With a commanding 10-3 victory, the Raiders left an indelible mark on the field, propelled by standout performances from Jaquae Stewart and Brock Tapper.

PAL Soccer Opens Fall Registration – Sign Up Details Here

A graphic about PAL soccer in Niceville, Florida.

For three decades, Vietnam War Hero Howard Hill has served in a different role – PAL Soccer League President. The fighter pilot and POW has seen the number of players grow every year—from 800 in the early 90s to more than 1,200 last year. They’ve seen growth every year except a dip of 350 kids during the ‘COVID year’ in 2020.

Raiders Baseball Dominate Eagles, Prep for Next Round

a baseball player celebrating on second base.

The Northwest Florida State Raiders Baseball team dominated the Polk State Eagles in a weekend series, with Kendrey Maduro and Cade Sadler leading the charge. Head Coach Doug Martin prepares his team for the next challenge against Florida Southwestern State in the regional playoffs at George M. Steinbrenner Field.

NWF Raiders Softball Sweeps Their Way To Conference Championship

a group of ladies in softball uniforms celebrating a championship

Northwest Florida State Softball’s back-to-back championship win against Chipola solidified their dominance in the Panhandle Conference. With a perfect record, historic performances, and eyes set on the national spotlight, these Raiders are rewriting the softball playbook!

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.