WILKES-BARRE, PA (May 6, 2026) -- As the 2025-26 academic year reaches its final stretch, King's College Sports Performance has proudly announced the women's recipients of the newly established Iron Monarch Award. The distinction recognizes elite student-athletes who consistently set the standard in the weight room, on the field, or in team settings through exceptional attitude, effort, enthusiasm, and leadership. Iron Monarchs are not just strong and talented, but also culture-drivers who elevate those around them through consistency, discipline, and accountability.
 
The 2025-26 Women's Iron Monarchs are listed below:
 
Track and Field student-athlete Brandy Varner earned the Iron Monarch title after solidifying herself as one of the most consistent and dependable presences in the Sports Performance program. Graduate Assistant for Sports Performance Garrett Thomas said Varner "is always one of the hardest workers in the room," highlighting her unmatched coachability, perfect attendance, and daily commitment to improvement. Her leadership and attention to detail set a lasting example as she prepares to continue her throwing career at the professional level.
 
Women's Volleyball's Riley McArdle earned Iron Monarch recognition following a season defined by work ethic, leadership and mental fortitude. Thomas pointed to her ability to lead through adversity, noting that she "will do what is asked of her with no complaints and will even do more than that to make sure everything is done the right way." Her resilience and willingness to embrace challenges helped her emerge as a reliable leader within the program.
 
Women's Soccer's Taryn Conover was honored for her energy, consistency, and leadership across all training environments. Coach Thomas noted that Conover "will always show up, ready to put the work in," while continually encouraging teammates and embracing coaching. Her attitude, toughness, and mentality made her a constant source of accountability and positive influence within the program.
 
Women's Ice Hockey standout Sammi Stead was recognized as one of the most impactful leaders in the Sports Performance program. Director of Sports Performance Ross Bowsher described her as "one of the best leaders I've ever seen," citing her ability to hold teammates accountable while bringing consistent passion, energy, and intensity every day. Even during the in-season grind, Stead maintained elite strength and conditioning standards, consistently leading speed, conditioning, and skill-based sessions through example.
 
Softball's Paige Bergan earned Iron Monarch honors as one of the strongest pound-for-pound student-athletes on campus. Assistant Director of Sports Performance Charles McCall said she "truly embodies what it means to give everything you have every single day," highlighting her exceptional work ethic and consistent intensity during every session. Her flawless technique and dominant strength numbers allow her to consistently finish at the top of team speed and conditioning sessions, while her leadership through action and positive energy helped drive team culture forward.
 
 
Rounding out this year's honorees, Women's Basketball's Melanie Selner was selected for her unwavering consistency and disciplined approach throughout the year. McCall highlighted her unmatched work ethic and daily intensity, noting that her refusal to cut corners helped establish the standard for her teammates. Through both her actions and attitude, Selner consistently reinforced the foundational values of an Iron Monarch.