Born in Russiaville, Indiana, Waverly grew up with a love for running. Her first memories of competition were against herself, running a one-mile distance measured from her childhood home and back hoping to best her previous effort.

It was in high school, competing for Culver Academies where Waverly excelled and learned the rewards of challenging work and perseverance. Under the guidance of her coach, Mike Chastain, Waverly was the 2010 Indiana state cross country champion and the 2011 Indiana 1,600 meters and 3,200 meters champion, plus setting a state finals record. In addition to her state finals wins, Waverly was the 2011 3,000 National Junior Outdoor Champion and national prep record holder in the indoor 5,000 meters.