Harpeth Hall future college athletes praised for heart and grit on spring signing day

When Harpeth Hall senior Myla Anglin first picked up a discus in 7th grade, she could barely hold the heavy, plate-shaped object much less throw it.

But, the spunky and energetic young athlete wasn’t deterred. She worked. She practiced. She found good friends to train with, and with one of those teammates she adopted a phrase often-used in track and field: “Iron sharpens iron.” The girls even made buttons with the saying, pinning them to their “I throw things” T-shirts.

Myla’s spirit carried her forward.

Six years later, she has a personal record throw of 121-feet, 6-inches (which Harpeth Hall throwing coach Kandy Kapanka notes “is pretty far if you’re not familiar) and she has committed to continue her track and field career at Centre College next year.

“Myla has grit!” Coach Kapanka exclaimed as she spoke at Harpeth Hall’s spring athletic signing celebration on April 29.

And Myla’s not alone. Alongside her table of Centre gold, was track and field teammate Lula Lowrance, a distance runner who signed to compete at the University of Miami, and senior classmate Emery Sonsino, a lacrosse player who will continue her career at Williams College.

“This moment represents far more than a signature on a page,” Harpeth Hall Director of Athletics Kylene Lee said. “It reflects years of early mornings, long practices, setbacks, growth, and an unwavering commitment to something bigger than themselves. Each of these athletes has not only excelled in her sport, but has also helped shape the culture of our program — competing with integrity, leading with confidence, and representing our school with pride.”

For Lula, that has looked like showing up at every race with a calm demeanor outside and the drive of a fierce competitor inside.

“She’s the kind of athlete every coach hopes for, not just because of her talent, but because of who she is,” Harpeth Hall varsity cross country and distance program coach Leah Skinner said. “She’s dependable. She’s driven. And, she brings a steady, positive energy that makes this team stronger.

“Younger athletes look at Lula and see what’s possible. She doesn’t just compete — she elevates.”

One could say the same about Emery, who for four years has been a force on the Harpeth Hall state championship-winning lacrosse team. In fact, her team calls her “the predator” for her ability to lock down an attacker on the other team and force turnovers “out of thin air,” Harpeth Hall lacrosse coach Megan Clark said.

“Emery is the most competitive athlete on the field — period. Her intensity is the spark that elevates our team in every single practice and game. But what truly defines her is her heart for this team; she is a leader who ensures everyone is taken care of.”

It would seem the “iron sharpens iron” in many ways — and so does the spirit of Harpeth Hall athletes.