Leah Yarbrough-Middlebrook: A BYF Original, Scholar-Athlete, and Rising Healthcare Leader

At BYF Sports, we’ve had the honor of watching young girls grow into powerful women — and few embody that evolution quite like Leah Yarbrough-Middlebrook. From the moment she joined us in the 7th grade, Leah was a standout — not just because of her athletic talent, but because of her focus, faith, and quiet strength.

🏀 From BYF to College Hoops

Leah’s basketball journey began in BYF gyms, where she quickly developed a name for herself as a hardworking and reliable student-athlete. Her discipline and passion paid off when she earned an athletic scholarship to UIC (University of Illinois Chicago) straight out of high school — a major accomplishment that set the tone for her collegiate success.

While UIC was her first stop, Leah’s journey led her to Indiana State University, where she transferred, took root, and ultimately graduated. And during this time, she didn’t just thrive academically — she also embraced love, sisterhood, and leadership.

💍 Marriage, Sisterhood & Milestones

In an inspiring turn during her freshman year, Leah got married — showing that maturity and commitment come in many forms. Balancing school, athletics, and family life, she didn’t just manage — she excelled.

She also became a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., joining a powerful legacy of Black women committed to service, scholarship, and sisterhood. The strength of her support system — both personal and sororal — helped her rise higher than ever before.

🎓 A Future in Healing: Kinesiology & Pre-PT

Leah graduated with a degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Pre-Physical Therapy, positioning her to step into the healthcare world and help others heal, move, and thrive. Just like she once studied the game, she now studies the body — with the same precision, curiosity, and drive.

Her path is one of balance, vision, and purpose — blending athletics, academics, and service in a way that inspires everyone around her.

🙌 BYF Sports is Proud

Leah, your journey is a reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all story to success. You’ve shown grace under pressure, strength in transition, and the kind of leadership that BYF Sports is built on. From the 7th-grade gym to Indiana State’s commencement stage, you’ve carried your name — and your BYF legacy — with pride.

We celebrate you not just for what you’ve done, but who you’ve become.

Congratulations, Leah Yarbrough-Middlebrook — athlete, scholar, wife, sister, and future healer. We couldn’t be prouder.

With love,
Your BYF Sports Family