When Miya DeBlecourt and Kate Van Appledorn first stepped onto the Holland Christian track and field team as juniors, they were simply looking for a fun way to stay active. Little did they know, that decision would spark a remarkable transformation—not just for themselves, but for the entire throwing program.

Fast forward to their senior year, and these two athletes have turned the Maroons' throwing squad into a record-breaking powerhouse. Van Appledorn shattered the school shot put record last season and has since pushed it even further, now standing at an impressive 41 feet, 3 inches. Not to be outdone, DeBlecourt claimed the discus record with a throw of 118-1, eclipsing the previous mark of 117-5 set by Olivia Schipper back in 2012.

"Last year, we weren't super strong on technique," DeBlecourt admitted. "Now we're really focused on fundamentals and building strength on the side. That work has given us so much more confidence. Setting the school record was incredible—seeing all that hard work finally pay off."

The friendly competition between these two near-6-foot athletes has only fueled their success. Van Appledorn went on to break DeBlecourt's discus record with a massive 127-6 throw, proving that their rivalry is as motivating as it is effective.

"I think now that I understand the technique better, I can focus on the finer details and get more technical," Van Appledorn explained. "We push each other every day—in the weight room, at practice, at school. We're together pretty much everywhere, and that makes us both better."

Their bond goes beyond the throwing circle. "Kate is one of my best friends," DeBlecourt said. "I look up to her so much because she's so disciplined. She pushes me every single day."

That partnership has proven so powerful that neither athlete is ready to call it quits. Both have committed to continue their throwing careers together at Calvin University next year. "When I started last year, I didn't really see this going super far," DeBlecourt reflected. "But I've had so much success. I'm really happy to have that opportunity alongside Kate."

From casual fun to record-breaking throws and college scholarships, this dynamic duo has completely redefined what's possible for Holland Christian's track and field program—proving that sometimes, the best partnerships start with just a little bit of fun.