Awards often highlight an athlete’s stats and victories, but for Madison Country Day School athletes, they highlight something deeper: growth, sportsmanship, and learning how to compete the right way.
The Prairie Hawks achieved fall team victories, with several athletes rising to higher levels and earning honors ranging from all-conference recognition to statewide awards.
Girls Volleyball
Volleyball player Zara ’29 embodied growth as she transitioned from middle hitter to right-side hitter in the back row, and then to outside hitter in the front row. She said she “came into this season with little experience in the back row,” but with help from her coaches and teammates, she became the team’s defensive MVP by season’s end.
By turning her challenge into a strength, she earned All-Conference honorable mention. Her effort to adjust and become a more versatile player shows what makes her such a standout athlete.
Sidney ’29 was recognized with an All-Conference sportsmanship award. She emphasized how leadership and positivity can combine to create not only a kinder team but a stronger one.
Zami ’28 earned All-Conference honorable mention in volleyball. She described her approach to sports as giving full effort and “owning the moment.”
Ruby ’28 was named All-Conference second team, placing her among the top players in the conference. While this is a major accomplishment, Ruby has her eyes on a first-team slot next season.
Cross Country
On the cross-country side, William ’27 took the second-place award in the entire conference.
In addition, multiple runners made the all-conference first team.
“I was committed to my coach’s training plan with practices five days a week, and long runs on the weekend. I saw improvements in my time and performance with each race.” Elsa ‘29 said, crediting her success to consistency.
Ashlyn ’28 managed to win all-conference honors in cross country while also playing volleyball for MCDS.
Danny ’27 took home more awards than any other MCDS athlete this fall, even though he missed first-team all-conference by a single place.
Danny earned all-conference second team and the all-conference sportsmanship award after helping a fallen competitor during a race—even though that runner ended up beating him.
“I don’t regret helping him out,” Danny said, putting respect and goodwill above results.
Though disappointed he didn’t earn a spot on the first team, he said the experience reinforced that achievement is not only about placement but about how an athlete handles adversity.
Soccer
Beyond the Trailways conference, Victor ’27 earned Wisconsin Soccer Coaches Association all-state recognition after scoring 12 goals with 7 assists. The honor is given to just 62 players statewide.
Victor pointed to enjoying the process as key to his success and said he believes next year’s team can win state if they follow that approach.
Throughout the season, these athletes showed that with consistency, adaptability, and a positive mindset, a person can rise and succeed—no matter their age or starting skill level.
