01/23/2026
Our girl ❤️🏐
Stalwart - a loyal, reliable, and hardworking supporter or participant in an organization or team.
Kansas Pregame is collaborating with coaches across the state to recognize the key team players flying under the radar of statewide media. Athletes who come to work every day for their team, but may not have the individual statistics to earn the accolades that go along with team success. 🌻We're calling them, Sunflower State Stalwarts.🌻
Malaya Broadwell, Labette County Grizzlies 🏐
Senior Malaya Broadwell quietly assembled an impressive defensive résumé on the volleyball court, piling up elite production on the back row while receiving limited recognition for her work.
Despite the lack of postseason attention, Broadwell’s impact for Labette County was undeniable.
“Malaya was the heart and soul of our team,” head coach Leigh Ann Phillips said. “She is always striving to perfect her craft on the back row and sets the example of how to be a great teammate.”
A three-year starting libero, Broadwell finished her career with 1,248 digs after posting 284 as a sophomore, 448 as a junior and 516 as a senior. She ranked first in Class 4A in digs as a senior and second as a junior, leading the SEK Conference both seasons. In 2025, she added 79 assists and 30 aces while reaching the 1,000 career digs milestone.
Along with her on-court production, Broadwell served as a steady leader for the Grizzlies.
“Malaya is the first to lift others up when they make mistakes or are down, and she is consistently positive,” Phillips said. “Her positive outlook is what makes her so successful.”
Broadwell is committed to continue her volleyball career at Labette County Community College.
“This is the epitome of a kid that anyone would want to coach,” Phillips said.
📢Coaches, to nominate an athlete for recognition as a Sunflower State Stalwart, message us details.📢
(Photo: Sean Frye, Parsons Sun)
