By Derrick Smith

Success in sports requires a lot of work and dedication. Maloree Byford has put in the time to help her get where she is, but she says that she has also had others that have helped her along the way. 

“It has taken a lot of hard work and lates nights in the cage with my mom to be the player I am today,” she said. “My siblings are my biggest role models. My brother is at boot camp right now so I push myself to be better everyday to make them proud. Mrs. Gaylord, who is my English teacher, has also made an impact on my life. She is also my assistant softball coach and she teaches me to be better in the classroom and on the field.”

Byford is a senior at Davenport high school, where she is a multi-sport athlete. She plays softball, basketball, and is also a member of the Bulldog’s cheerleading team. Other than sports, Maloree serves as class secretary, is a member of the student council, and the yearbook.

Byford says that the success that she has experienced has come not just because of her hard work, but also because of her outstanding teammates.

“I have some great teammates that I enjoy competing alongside,” she said. “I probably enjoy going up against Macy Keeling the most in practice. We have played together most of our lives and we always push each other to be better. Also, Katy Simon is an outstanding player and teammate and she is probably the least appreciated player on our team. She is always looked over but is the most positive person and always picks up everyone else around her.”

Throughout her time on the field and court, Byford had enjoyed some outstanding moments. She says that a her favorite moment came when she competed with her travel team.

“The highlight of my career was winning the USA National Championship with my travel ball team this last summer,” she said. “It was an experience that I will not forget.”