By Angela Brunk
Emporia High School senior Marley Sewell has made her mark both on and off the softball field. As a 12th-grade outfielder for the Spartans, Sewell plays with a blend of quiet leadership and fierce determination. Her biggest motivation is being a leader on the team.
The sense of purpose is clear to anyone who watches Sewell play softball. She brings energy, effort, and focus to every game and practice. “Grace and grit,” she said, are what it takes to be successful in the sport. “Gracious for every time I get to step on the field and hard work in and outside of practice.”
A highlight of her softball journey came during her junior year, when Emporia defeated Manhattan High School. This was a victory that stands out as one of her proudest moments on the field.
Behind Sewell’s drive is a support system she deeply values. “My biggest role models are my parents,” she shared with Vype Magazine. “They push me to be the best version of myself.” In softball, she credits coaches Hazeez Rafiu and Tommy McClure for transforming her game. “They came in my sophomore year and changed the entire dynamic of the team. I don’t think I’ve ever been more grateful for a coach before.”
Beyond athletics, Sewell is active in her school community. She serves on the Senior Class Board and STUCO. She is involved in Circle of Friends and Spartan Club; through this, she contributes to the positive culture of Emporia High School.
Though she is currently uncommitted to a college, Sewell plans to continue her education after graduation this spring to pursue a degree in nursing or pre-nursing.
For now, Sewell is embracing every moment of her senior year and is proud to represent Emporia. “It’s an honor to play with Emporia on my chest,” she says. “I’m forever grateful to be a student-athlete of this community. Go Spartans!”
