Sports
Panther Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From Perryville High School
From local fields to national fame, these stars got their start in Perryville.
Sports run deep in Perryville, and Perryville High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Panther uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from Perryville High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.
1. Alyssa Stanley – All-County Sharpshooter and College-Bound Guard
A key contributor to Perryville High School’s recent basketball success, Alyssa Stanley helped the Panthers capture back-to-back 1A East Region I titles. A multi-year All-County honoree, she capped off her senior season with 10.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, 3.1 steals and 2.2 assists per game, while making 45 three-pointers. Ranked in the top 20 in Maryland for three-point shooting, After graduating in 2025, Stanley continued her basketball journey with the Cecil College Seahawks. (Sources: Cecil Daily, MaxPreps)
2. Tayshawn Johnson – All-State Linebacker and Defensive Leader
A defensive powerhouse for Perryville, Tayshawn Johnson was named All-County Defensive Player of the Year in both 2023 and 2024. As a senior, he earned Class 1A All-State honors with 142 total tackles, 23 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. Johnson helped lead the Panthers to consecutive state playoff appearances and will take his talents to Frostburg State University, where he’ll continue his football career as a linebacker. (Sources: Frostburg Sports, Cecil Daily)
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3. Amanda Wagner – Versatile Volleyball Standout and College Competitor
Amanda Wagner was a three-year varsity volleyball player for Perryville who contributed to multiple championship-winning seasons. She also competed with the Mason Dixon Volleyball Club and was recognized for her versatility as both an outside and middle hitter. Wagner went on to play for the women’s volleyball team at Cecil College, balancing athletics with academics and community involvement as a member of the National Honor Society. (Sources: NCSA Sports, Cecil Athletics)
4. Sarah Cantrell – Championship Goalkeeper and Defensive Anchor
Standout goalkeeper Sarah Cantrell anchored the Perryville defense during deep postseason runs, including a trip to the state title game in 2023. She finished her senior season with 89 saves, eight shutouts and just 11 goals allowed. Cantrell was a 2022 All-County selection and is now continuing her soccer career at Elmira College, where she plays for the Division III Soaring Eagles. (Sources: Cecil Daily, Elmira Athletics)
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5. Kristyn Gardner – Power-Hitting Catcher and Collegiate All-Conference Star
A standout catcher from Perryville, Kristyn Gardner has built an impressive collegiate career at Rider University. A First Team All-MAAC selection in 2025, she led her team in batting average, home runs, slugging and total bases. Gardner also excels academically, earning multiple Academic All-District and All-MAAC honors. She began her athletic journey with Perryville High and the Maryland Legends, where she was recognized as Defensive Player of the Year and a strong team leader. (Sources: NCSA Sports, Rider Athletics)
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