Matthew Sheffield was on his way home from the American Legion Ala. Boys State when he received one of the more surprising calls he’d gotten in recent memory.

The call came from his athletic director, and the message was short and sweet—the Alabama Sports Writers Association had voted him as a Class 1A All-State honorable mention as a pitcher.

“I was in the car gasping for air because it was just unreal,” Sheffield said.

“But I was definitely surprised.  I felt tremendously honored not only to be one of the top six pitchers in 1A, but to be able to represent Georgiana.”

But the honor is hardly the first for the standout pitcher.

Sheffield also recorded a rare no-hitter back in March against J.U. Blacksher High School, striking out 11 and walking two en route to a 1-0 complete game victory against the Class 1A rival.

Sheffield also cleaned house during Georgiana’s annual Athletic Banquet in May, taking home a number of awards including the coveted Most Valuable Player trophy for the Georgiana Baseball team.

Georgiana head baseball coach Ken Hamilton said that Sheffield’s presence isn’t just an inspiration to the many younger players on the Panthers team, but that at times he often serves as a second coach on the field.

“Of course, I am very proud of him and I know that he would have been first team All-State if we finished with a better record,” Hamilton said.

“Indeed, he is looking forward to a great senior season in 2015.”