MFS Girls Basketball’s leading scorer Bella Runyan is receiving both local and national recognition for her hard work and talent on the court. Sports have always been a focus in her family: her father is a former Eagles player and she has two siblings who are college athletes. Recently, Runyan has become the second highest scorer in the history of MFS Girls Basketball. While many would be satisfied with this accomplishment Runyan is determined to keep racking up points. 

“It does feel very rewarding, but I am not finished my career, so I hope to keep climbing higher on the scoring board,” said Runyan.

Head Coach Mike Brunswick has coached Runyan at Moorestown Friends the past four years and has watched her grow as a basketball player. 

“[She], with her teammates over the years, has put Moorestown Friends back into South Jersey girls’ basketball relevance. It’s been an awesome experience for me and for people who play with her.”

Besides being honored in the MFS community, Runyan received a nomination for the McDonald’s All American Game. Runyan’s coaches are so proud of her strong work ethic and skills. 

Coach Katie Stutz said, “She definitely deserves the nomination, and it’s a wonderful honor for Bella to represent MFS on a national level.  Also, despite all of the recognition that Bella has received in athletics, she remains a modest, down-to-earth athlete who is always respectful and kind towards her teammates and coaches … She’s not just an excellent athlete, but an outstanding person as well.”

In addition to her coaches, her teammates are also extremely proud of her. Muffin Davis ’22, a teammate of Runyan, commented, “I’m really happy for Bella, and I’m glad I can be her teammate. She works really hard … I can’t wait to see the things she does, and I’m so happy and proud of her.”

Runyan explained to WordsWorth that she “works very hard” to “improve every aspect of [her] game.” 

Her work ethic and desire to grow as a player serves as an inspiration to her teammates and coaches. 

“Bella has noticeably improved each year and has matured as a leader … Bella listens to constructive feedback and uses it to strengthen all areas of her game,” said Stutz. 

In the fall, Runyan officially committed to Villanova to play for their womens’ basketball team. Runyan, a role model for athletes both here at Moorestown Friends School and outside our school community, offered the following advice to up-and-coming players: “It is important to play on a strong AAU team outside of school and a school team. Work hard everyday as if it is your last time you’ll ever play and never get complacent.”