It was a weekend for the books for every Malad Dragon fan.  With athletes competing in the state softball, baseball, and track, Dragon determination, discipline and drive was on full display.  Playing in northern Idaho, the Lady Dragon softball team went two and two to earn a fourth place finish.  Coach Bri Adams couldn’t speak enough of the resiliency her team had learned throughout the season, a lesson they were taught again on the softball field as they played for the last time this season.

The Dragon baseball team played took the field in Caldwell as the #1 seed, finishing as state runner-up.  While the tournament ended in a loss, Coach Chad Maroney emphasized several strong highlights from the season and postseason run. Easton Green provided a steady spark for the Dragons all year, while senior Kurt Ward closed his final season with 11 pitching starts and key wins, including an important opening victory over Salmon at state. Defensively, Malad’s outfield stood out with its speed, range, and strong arms that consistently limited extra bases. Coach Maroney expressed pride in the team’s effort, growth, and achievement in returning to the championship game.

The MHS track and field team returned to the Middleton track with 29 athletes, more than half of them competing in multiple events.  Over the two day championship meet, Malad’s competitors rose to the top as some of the best in the state.  The boys team tallied an impressive 80.5 points to secure a second place title with the girls team placing fourth with 54.5 points.  

This feat wasn’t accomplished by just a few medal finishes, but by nearly each MHS athlete adding points to the team’s score.  The team’s results were full of not only medaling finishes but multiple personal bests, showcasing the results of their continued hard work and commitment over the course of the season. 

Among the crowned individual state champions were a number of Malad winners, including Bostyn Burbidge, Braun Nalder, Brielle Bastian, and Kaycee Venable.  Their stand out performances played a crucial part in the team’s ultimate achievement.

While these performances showcase the talent of the many MHS athletes, it more importantly demonstrates the lengths these athletes will go in an attempt to reach the potential within, a lesson that will carry them through their entire lives.  

An in-depth look at the Dragons at their respective state tournaments starts on page 11.