Grand Rapids, Mich. – Consistency at a championship level is difficult to achieve, but Aquinas junior Maelie Hope is making it look routine. After another outstanding weekend on the track and in the field, Hope has been named the WHAC Women's Track & Field Field Athlete of the Week for the second consecutive week, continuing what has become a remarkable junior season.
Hope's latest honor comes on the heels of another record-breaking performance, as she once again rewrote the Aquinas record book in the 60-meter dash. Competing in the preliminaries, Hope clocked a time of 7.60 seconds, lowering her own school record of 7.62 that she had set just one week earlier. She went on to place second overall in the event while further improving her provisional qualifying mark for the NAIA National Championships.
While her speed on the track continues to turn heads, Hope's versatility in the field was equally impressive throughout the weekend. In the invitational section of the weight throw, she placed fourth with a toss of 57 feet, 10.5 inches, competing against a strong field of athletes. She also delivered another provisional qualifying effort in the shot put, recording a mark of 44 feet, 6.25 inches to finish fifth, adding to an already impressive résumé this season.
Earning WHAC Player of the Week honors for a second straight week underscores not only Hope's talent, but her ability to perform at a high level across multiple disciplines. Whether sprinting on the track or competing in the throwing circle, Hope has consistently delivered results that elevate both herself and the Aquinas program.
Her continued success reflects the depth and momentum of the Saints women's track & field team, as Aquinas athletes continue to make their presence felt at the conference and national level. With each competition, Hope has shown a steady progression, a competitive edge, and a commitment to improvement that sets the tone for those around her.
As the season moves forward, one thing is becoming increasingly clear — Maelie Hope is not just having a standout year, she is establishing herself as one of the WHAC's most complete and consistent performers. And for Aquinas Athletics, her latest recognition serves as another reminder that it's always a great day to be a Saint.
