Malvern girls track and field preparing to defend IVC North title

Just like their male counterparts, the Malvern girls team cleaned up last season after also capturing the Inter-Valley Conference North title and finishing as district runner-up. And also just like the boys, the Lady Hornets enter the 2026 track season with similar expectations.

While the team graduated several key contributors, a solid returning core and emerging young talent should have Malvern aiming high once again.

In a case of “anything you can do, I can do better,” the Lady Hornets are aiming to repeat as champs, having lost one more senior than the boys. Pay no mind to that, however, as this Malvern squad is itching to get back on the track.

Leading the way are several standout returners with state-level experience. Senior Kami Rayborn returns as a state qualifier and part of a state-qualifying 4x400 relay, while junior Emma Maher and Avery Sprague also bring state experience. Sophomore Mya Doughty adds even more firepower after qualifying in three events and earning a state berth in the long jump during the indoor season.

A key newcomer to watch is freshman Olivia Maher, already a state qualifier in the 60-meter hurdles and 4x400 relay during the indoor season, adding immediate impact potential. Ella Pye is another freshman to watch out for in the sprints, hurdles, and relays.

“The same as on the boys' end, we will go into the season with big-meet experience,” Maher said. “The girls have also worked hard in the offseason and are a fun group.”

Despite having a smaller roster, the Lady Hornets are confident their athleticism and versatility will more than make up for that.

“Although they are small in numbers, they are as athletic as any group we have had,” Maher said. And Maher, who’s been mentoring the girls’ team at Malvern for a decade now, should know.

Additional contributors include seniors Marisa Passio in the throws and a strong junior and sophomore group featuring Lexus Buchman, Grace Beaver, and others who will help fill key roles across events.

Depth in the throwing events will be bolstered by five newcomers – juniors Kendra Verboski, Abby Kirby, and Shyanne Cutlip, join sophomores MJ Wade and Jayla Burrows, giving Malvern plenty of options as the season progresses.

Still, replacing the production of last year’s graduating class will be no small task.

“Our numbers will impact our ability to fill events at times,” Maher said. “We also take a hit losing key contributors in multiple events.”

Even so, the team’s mindset is one of motivation.

“The girls will be focused on having another successful season as evidenced by their offseason work,” Maher said. “We want to be competitive in a stacked IVC league.”

Maher believes his crew has everything needed to succeed.

“They are small but mighty,” he said. “They have all the tools to have success this year. Their work and dedication are unmatched.”

With a bevy of experienced senior leaders, emerging young talent, and a determination to build on last season’s success, the Lady Hornets appear ready to compete for another conference crown.