2026 Nancy Malinowski Athletic Award

Each year, Mercy High School presents the Nancy Malinowski Award to a senior who excels as a multi-sport athlete while also demonstrating outstanding academic performance, leadership, sportsmanship, and character. This award honors Nancy “Mal” Malinowski, our beloved former Athletic Director and a trailblazing multi-sport athlete who dedicated her life to building and supporting Mercy Athletics.

Sophia Kallabat

Mercy High School proudly recognized Sophia Kallabat as this year’s recipient of the Nancy Malinowski Award.

Throughout her time at Mercy, Sophia made a tremendous impact through her athletic accomplishments, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Mercy community. A gifted multi-sport athlete, she excelled both in the pool and on the ice while consistently demonstrating the values of Mercy Athletics.

In swimming, Sophia was named Academic All-State in 2025 and contributed to the success of four CHSL Championship teams and three State Championship teams during her career at Mercy.

In hockey, she established herself as one of the top players in the state, earning All-State honors in both 2025 and 2026. She was also recognized as a three-time All Catholic athlete and earned All Academic honors in 2026.

Beyond her impressive list of accomplishments, Sophia distinguished herself through her leadership, work ethic, humility, and team-first mentality. She has been a respected role model for her teammates and peers, bringing positivity, dedication, and sportsmanship to every aspect of her Mercy experience.

Sophia’s commitment to excellence both in athletics and in the classroom truly embodies the spirit of the Nancy Malinowski Award, and her impact on the Mercy community will be felt for years to come.

Clare Hafner

Mercy High School proudly recognized Clare Hafner as the second recipient of the Nancy Malinowski Award.

Clare truly embodies the spirit of this award through her exceptional achievements in athletics, academics, leadership, and service to the Mercy community. A standout member of the Mercy Swim and Dive program, she will continue her academic and athletic career swimming at John Carroll University.

During her remarkable career at Mercy, Clare earned numerous athletic honors, including serving as Swim Team Captain, being named a three-time All-State honoree, two-time All Catholic selection, and three-time All County athlete. She also received All League recognition in the OAA and was honored with the Miss Marlin Award, an honor voted on by her teammates that reflects her leadership and positive impact within the program. Clare was also a member of three State Championship swim teams and served as a Michigan Swimming Athlete Representative.

In Track and Field, Clare continued to excel, earning both All Catholic and All County honors while helping set the school record as part of the 4x800 relay team.

Beyond athletics, Clare distinguished herself as one of Mercy’s top students and leaders. She served as a Science Club leader and was actively involved in Link Crew, Spanish Honor Society, and National Honor Society. Her academic accomplishments include recognition as a Mercy Scholar Athlete, AP Scholar with Distinction, and a Valedictorian/Salutatorian finalist. She also earned both the Global Seal and Michigan Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish.

Most importantly, Clare represented Mercy with humility, integrity, compassion, and a genuine commitment to others. Whether competing, leading, or supporting her teammates and classmates, she consistently demonstrated the values and spirit that define the Nancy Malinowski Award.