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Recent Washingtonville High School graduate Malachi Taylor was inducted into the Wall of Champions Friday morning for earning the title of 400m State Champion, with an outstanding time of 46.98 seconds. Family, friends, coaches, educators and loved ones gathered outside of the WHS auditorium to witness this remarkable milestone in his athletic career.
“I've worked so hard for this, the countless hours of work, practice, my dedication,” Malachi said. “I'm just glad that my family's here, everyone's here who supported me. I’d like to give my thanks to God, my family, my friends and everyone who supported me. I'm excited for this to happen.”
The ceremony started with encouraging words from Track and Field Coach Michael White and Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Suzanne Lendzian before Malachi unveiled his plaque on the wall.
“I've been here for a long time, and I've coached many athletes and many great athletes here,” said Coach White. “What makes him different from other athletes is not just his athletic ability, but his mentorship to the younger athletes, his leadership, what he has on the team, what he brings to everybody and brings to the team atmosphere.”
In addition to track, Malachi was a part of the high school basketball team, where he was named this year’s OCIAA Division II All-Star. During the winter season, he balanced both sports along with his academic studies; something that is no small feat. In the fall, he will attend the University at Buffalo to run track and pursue a career in business. To read more about his athletic career, click here!
Malachi has broken multiple school records for the 200m, 400m and 4x4. In 2023, Malachi was a part of the Team State Champion in Track and Field for the 4x400 relay with Joseph Napolitano, David Gerdin and Jaiden Bradshaw. The team was inducted into the Wall of Champions for their achievement that season.
“I'm so proud of him. It's just amazing to see,” said older sister Chanel, a Washingtonville 2024 graduate who was also a part of the track team with Malachi. “I knew that when he started track, he was capable of such big things.To see him be inducted by himself this time, it's just so amazing. His career has been monumental. I loved being on the same team as him. I'm just so excited that this is happening.”
Congratulations Malachi! The Washingtonville Central School District wishes you the best of luck in all your future endeavors. Once a Wizard, Always a Wizard!
