Madison (Maddie) Weyker '20 Recruiting Profile

For as long as I can remember volleyball has played a huge role in my life. Over the next few years, I aspire to continue to grow and develop my skills at the next level both as an athlete and a person. The game means so much to me because it is a team sport and the idea of playing for those around you and working to achieve a goal together is amazing. I don’t play the game only for myself, but for my teammates and my siblings. I hope to be the big sister that they look up to as a role model. I do not categorize myself as a specific position, though I enjoy being an outside hitter. I love the thrill of approaching to the set and the sound and feel of the ball when my hand makes contact with the ball. However, throughout my volleyball career I have played various positions including outside and opposite hitter. I started playing volleyball in fourth grade and I have evolved into a six rotation player. I am a natural leader that both coaches and team trust. During stressful situations, people look to me to help calm everyone down. I am someone who is a positive motivator and can give constructive criticism to push my teammates towards our goal. In tough situations, I do not get rattled and I am able to control my emotions and stay steady and consistent. Both on and off the court I work hard. I believe in practicing as hard as I would play in a game. This is  because I have learned the importance of discipline and effort is 100% of the time. I am a fierce competitor who loves to play and compete with my team.

My academic goals are equally as important as my athletic goals. At school I participate in honors courses and various activities. One of the clubs I am in is called Best Buddies. This is a club where students are able to interact and spend time with the students in our school who have disabilities like down syndrome, schizophrenia, and other mental disabilities. In addition to Best Buddies, I am in blue crew. Blue Crew is a club for athletes who believe in sharing the message and demonstrating how to “stay clean” for their academic years. At an early age, I found that I enjoyed finding ways to help others be their best. I have volunteered in homeless shelters and served meals to them. In addition to this, I have helped kids develop their skills in volleyball. These opportunities have helped me become the person I am today. It has taught me how to show compassion and stay calm in stressful situations.

Because of my commitment to this sport and to my growth, I have been recognized by my high school as the most improved player and nominated for special awards. I am a driven and hardworking individual who will always give 100% and ask the same of my coaches and teachers. I appreciate and believe that getting better is about continual improvement and continual practice. Without coaches, teachers, and my family I would not be pursuing the opportunities that lay ahead of me in the years to come.