Gatorade today announced Riley Vaughn of Spartanburg the 2025-26 Gatorade South Carolina Girls Track and Field Player of the Year.
The 5-foot-10 junior throws specialist swept the shot put and discus throw at the 2026 SCHSL State Track and Field Championships - 5A Division 1 this past season, leading the Vikings to fifth place as a team. At the SCHSL 5A D1 Upper State qualifying meet, Vaughn put the shot a personal-best 47 feet, 3.5 inches, which ranked no. 29 nationally. She also took third in the shot put with a heave of 45-0.75 to earn All-American honors at Under Armour Nationals.
"It means everything. It's the highest honor a high school athlete can receive, and it's a reflection of every early morning, hard practice , late night and challenge along the way. This award represents far more than athletic success, it also recognizes my hard work, leadership, character and dedication both on and off the field. I'm incredibly grateful, humbled and honored to receive this recognition." - Riley Vaughn, Spartanburg Vikings track and field
Vaughn has volunteered locally at nursing homes in addition to assisting with school-supply drives, food-distribution events and church outreach initiatives. She has also donated her time as a youth track and basketball coach.
