Salute To Seniors: Malayna Steffensen (Canyon View)


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Name: Malayna Steffensen

School: Canyon View


  • What was your most memorable race/throw/jump/vault/moment?

 Footlocker West 2019. It was so wet! That we ran the 'rain course'. I was able to find my zone during that race and stayed focused in keeping up with the first pack. I was able to win the senior race and got an interview with Milesplit, which was cool. But the most memorable part was hugging my teammates at the end and everyone was so happy.

  • Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?

Myself and all the girls in Region 9 because they are all amazing runners.


  • What was your greatest accomplishment?

My improvements made from freshmen year to my senior year and being able to accomplish my big goals, such as finishing in the top 10 my junior year and 4th my senior year at state.

  • If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

Enjoy it a lot more. I was always focused on State that I forgot to enjoy the practices. I sometimes forgot to enjoy the moment and not to rush it.

  • What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

Being anemic, which led to racing anxiety.  The anxiety was bad enough where I would almost pass out before races. But I learned to be okay with whatever happened if I came in first or last as long as I finished and gave it all I had.


  • What will you miss the most?

My younger teammates. They have helped me more than they realize. They push me during practices and races because I couldn't let them down. I am going to miss the practices with warm weather, laughing with friends in the ice baths, and the feeling when everything in the world seems right.

  • What advice would you give to younger athletes?

It is going to be hard. Yes, there are times that you want to give up, but DON'T it will all be worth it at the end. Also, make friends with your competitors they aren't so scary and they will become your closest friends. Enjoy the time you have with these sports because you don't know if you'll have a next season.

  • What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?

Well, my mom is the coach. So I was kinda forced into this life of running.  But I cannot thank her enough for it. She has taught me to push through the pain on the track and in life. She has held me to my goals and keeps me focused.  Also, Lisa Baker (my distance coach for track) whenever she said "good job" during a race I knew I better pick it and start passing people.


  • What are your college plans?

Well, I am first serving an LDS mission. But for college I am most likely going to SUU but if I get any good offers to run I'll take it in a heartbeat.

  • Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?

Everyone and anyone who has cheered for me these past four years. Anyone who yelled "Let's go Canyon View! You got this!" It helped a lot during my moments of need during races. Also all my teammates past and present, you have pushed me to be my best. And my competitors who have become close friends. But I can't forget my mom who does so much for my team and for me. Thank you all!!