The 2024 NFCA NAIA Leadoff Classic kicked off at the South Commons Complex in Columbus, Georgia. Eight teams, including No. 4 Georgia Gwinnett, No. 3 Cumberlands, No. 23 William Carey, No. 20 Freed-Hardeman, Rio Grande, No. 8 Central Methodist, RV Campbellsville, and Thomas, ended the first day undefeated. Georgia Gwinnett won three games, while the other seven teams each won two.
Georgia Gwinnett’s Grizzlies won two close games against Webber and Jessup. They also had a significant 13-2 win over Calumet College of St. Joseph. The Cumberlands Patriots overcame a 6-1 score to win 7-6 against IU Southeast. They also won 14-1 against No. 18 Coastal Georgia. William Carey Crusaders won two games against Kentucky Christian and Lawrence Tech.
The Freed-Hardeman Lions won two games against Coastal Georgia and IU Southeast without conceding any runs. Rio Grande’s RedStorm won against No. 12 Mobile and Kentucky Christian. Central Methodist Eagles won against Georgetown and Embry-Riddle. Campbellsville won against Blue Mountain Christian and Milligan after breaking ties.