For Malia Kay Todd, the lessons learned through youth sports have stayed with her long after she left the field. Growing up in Kansas City, Kansas, Malia spent seven years participating in Kansas RBI and Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation programming, including Instructional League

s and Badges for Baseball. Along the way, she found mentors, built lasting friendships, and developed the confidence and leadership skills that continue to shape her future.

One of Malia’s favorite memories was playing at the George and Doris Haley Youth Development Park, where she discovered that the game offered more than a chance to compete. The experiences she has through Kansas RBI and Foundation programs helped her learn teamwork and resilience and form valuable relationships with coaches and local law enforcement officers.

“My time participating in the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation programming which includes my favorite Badges for Baseball has been nothing but positive and rewarding. I will forever remember the impactful interactions with the local police departments along with friends and coaches I’ve met throughout my journey. I might have changed sports, but CRSF and Success Achieved in Future Environments saved my love for the game.”

Now a junior at Missouri Valley University, Malia is studying Social Studies Education and competing on the university’s women’s powerlifting team. She recently qualified for the 2027 USA Powerlifting Collegiate Nationals, bringing the same determination she developed as a young athlete to a new challenge.

After college, Malia hopes to teach in an inner-city school, coach softball, and help create meaningful change. Her story shows how the right mentors, opportunities, and positive relationships can help young people achieve their goals.