Malvern Preparatory School’s athletic program wrapped up a great year by winning the Inter-Academic League’s Heyward Cup for a fourth time in school history.
The Cup is awarded annually to the school that accumulates the most points based on its league standing in all Inter-Ac sports throughout the fall, winter and spring seasons. During the 2011-2012 school year, the Friars won Inter-Ac championships in football, cross country, soccer, basketball, track & field and baseball. In the postseason, the baseball team won the PAISAA state championship. Malvern’s water polo, golf, swimming, wrestling, squash, tennis and lacrosse teams also earned points to contribute to the victory.
The Friars accumulated 63 points in the Heyward Cup race, edging last year’s winner the Haverford School, who compiled 59 points. Points are given based on each school’s position in the league standings at the end of each season.
“I would like to congratulate all of the students, coaches and members of all the teams,” said Malvern Prep Athletic Director Kurt Ruch. “Winning the Heyward Cup is a great achievement by our athletic teams and for our school. It is the fourth time our school has won this wonderful award in our 50+ years in the Inter-Ac. It has been a great year,” Ruch continued. “Coaches and players, thank you for all you have accomplished on and off the fields, courts, ice and in the water.”
Malvern’s drive to the Heyward Cup was fueled by five seniors who were named Inter-Ac Most Valuable Players, pictured left to right: Brendan Kilpatrick for basketball; Joe Ravert for baseball; Melvin Snoh for soccer; Joe Nilan for football; and Tom Pitt for track & field.