Madison Ballard '20 Recruiting Profile

I was introduced to volleyball during my 6th grade year, playing on the Police Athletic League. I had never heard of the sport and was excited to try something new. I quickly fell in love and continued my volleyball career to the point where I am today! Throughout my time playing volleyball, I have found that I love working with a team where players are dependent on each other for their strengths. Working with a team has built me up psychologically and prepared me to endure hard things that may come my way athletically, academically, or through non-school related situations.

My academic goal for high school includes receiving the advanced diploma to receive scholarships offered by my (and other) schools , while participating in several student clubs and organizations, such as the National Honor Society. I love to experiment and try all things that challenge me and my knowledge. Once I graduate high school, I plan to go to a 4-year institution and receive a Masters in Biochemistry. Afterwards, I would like to further my career by becoming a biochemistry professor. If my journeys allow me to do so, I would even love to play professionally or coach professionally!

The obstacles I have faced during my life have formed me as a person. Throughout my freshman, sophomore and junior year of high school, I suffered from massive self-doubt. As a result, I often looked at others and unfairly compared my accomplishments with theirs, constantly telling myself I was never going to amount to anything of worth, my accomplishments would go unnoticed, and that I didn't deserve any of the awards that I was receiving. I was in a self-placed depression that consumed all my activities, even volleyball. After consulting with my parents and finding purpose religion-wise, I became a different person. With the help of my high school and club coach, my confidence was unparalleled to my previous self, and my skills heightened to where I am today.

I am an individual with open arms for criticism and improvement. Being able to see accomplishments within myself will continue to push me further and strive for excellence. I am constantly striving to build an unbreakable team bond and I am always eager to work with others to find success in both them and I. I believe these traits are essential keys in building a not only physically strong, but also a psychologically strong team.