J’Lyn Guyden Reclaims Top Spot as Santa Fe’s Softball Sensation!

Gainesville, Florida, USA - The Gainesville Sun has recently crowned J’Lyn Guyden of Santa Fe as the Player of the Year for 2023, spotlighting her exceptional talents on the softball field. This esteemed honor reflects her outstanding performance throughout the season and marks a significant achievement for a player who has played a pivotal role in her team’s successes over the years. Having previously held this title in 2022, Guyden’s return to the top comes after her competitor, Leanna Bourdage from Gainesville High, faced injuries in 2025, thus allowing Guyden to reclaim her title.

Guyden’s season was nothing short of remarkable. She amassed an impressive 47 RBIs, ranking 11th in the state of Florida and 2nd in Class 3A. Her batting average stood at an astoundingly high 0.486, coupled with three home runs to her name. Under her influence, Santa Fe finished the season with a commendable record of 19-4, showcasing the depth of talent in district competitions.

All-Area Big School Softball Team

The All-Area Big School Softball team for this year featured a roster of 22 players, chosen from six schools across Class 2A and above. Included in the prestigious First Team are infielders such as Madisyn Gillians from Gainesville High and Emma Mansfield from P.K. Yonge, while the standout outfield also showcases Guyden alongside her teammate Madison Crosby. The list of talents is capped with excellent pitchers, Sarah Burns and Harleigh Price, adding to the competitive spirit of the lineup.

• First Team Selections:
  • Infield: Madisyn Gillians (Gainesville High), Gracie Mattson (Newberry), Emma Mansfield (P.K. Yonge), Jordyn Cooper (Buchholz)
  • Outfield: Madison Crosby (Santa Fe), J’Lyn Guyden (Santa Fe), Luisa Taylor (Columbia)
  • Catcher: Julianna Abraham (Buchholz)
  • Utility: McKenna O’Sullivan (Gainesville High)
  • Pitchers: Harleigh Price (Columbia), Sarah Burns (Newberry)
• Second Team Selections:
  • Infield: JJ Mott (Santa Fe), Malana Kennard (Newberry), Madison Blackford (Buchholz), Maren Hornsby (Santa Fe)
  • Outfield: Breleigh Ford (Santa Fe), Leila Ricks (Buchholz), Sakiya Merriex (Columbia)
  • Catcher: Braylin Cook (Santa Fe)
  • Utility: Josie Raulerson (Columbia)
  • Pitchers: Makenna Payne (Santa Fe), Leanna Bourdage (Gainesville High)

Coach of the Year honors went to Chris Chronister from Gainesville High, whose leadership propelled his team to the region finals despite facing several key injuries, including to his ace pitcher, Bourdage.

A Commitment to Excellence

J’Lyn’s journey in softball is a testament to perseverance and dedication. She initially dove into the sport at age eight on her father’s suggestion, even though her heart was set on gymnastics. Today, she stands out as one of Santa Fe High School’s best offensive players in over a decade, a fact not lost on those who follow high school sports in the area. „It’s all about approach; a strong mental game has always carried me through,“ Guyden shares, emphasizing the deep-rooted love she has for the sport.

With a batting average of .468 and a top-15 ranking in the state for RBIs, her achievements highlight not just talent but the impact of hard work, family support, and the positive coaching environment fostered by figures like Coach Fico. She has her eyes firmly set on continuing her softball journey, fueled by dreams and aspirations that go beyond high school.

All of these accomplishments contribute not only to J’Lyn’s character but to a broader narrative about the role of sports in shaping youth. Whether it’s through awards like those given by the Florida High School Athletic Association or the invaluable life skills gained through teamwork and sportsmanship, there is clearly much to celebrate in Florida’s high school athletics.

As we cheer on talents like J’Lyn Guyden, her story serves as both inspiration and a reminder that with hard work and dedication, the sky is the limit. What’s next for this budding star? The future certainly looks bright! To read more about her accomplishments, visit the in-depth articles from Gainesville Sun and WCJB.