ZA’LAYA EDWARDS

The James C. “Jimmy” Montecalvo and Luke Blanock
2026 MEMORIAL COURAGE AWARD

CHARTIERS-HOUSTON AND FORT CHERRY HIGH SCHOOLS • PENN STATE-FAYETTE

Za’layah is a standout point guard despite being born without a fibula in either leg. She has clubfeet that turn inward. Her feet are webbed, with three toes on one foot and four on the other. Chartiers-Houston girls basketball coach coach, Laura Montecalvo, could not order her game shoes with the other players because Za’layah wears a kids size 2. Despite the physical and medical struggles in her everyday life from fibular hermimelia, Edwards has succeeded by embracing her challenges and outworking others with an unbridled passion, exuberance, and character. Forgoing options such as amputation and prosthetics, Za’layah endured 14 surgeries and worked her way into an important role on both Chartiers-Houston and then Fort Cherry’s basketball teams while playing in constant pain. She uses ice packs and takes ibuprofen after games. Also an outstanding student, Edwards is continuing her academic and athletic careers as well as still inspiring others as a member of Penn State-Fayette’s women’s basketball team.