This season, Madison Country Day School’s 3rd and 4th graders are taking the court in a new co-ed volleyball program designed to build skills and team spirit well before the middle school whistle blows.
This program is easing the transition into Middle School sports, with a focus on love of the sport, sportsmanship and fun.
“I’ve always been a champion for MCDS athletics,” the new team’s head coach and fourth grade homeroom teacher, Katy Carlson, said. “I truly believe sports help shape a student’s character.”
Carlson also started playing volleyball in fourth grade and is thrilled to provide that same spark for students at MCDS.
This program was created to cultivate a competitive developmental program for lower school students making the jump to middle school sports, bridging the gap between divisions beyond the classroom.
Twelve students are currently participating in the program, practicing for one hour on Mondays and Wednesdays. Practices use lower nets, and the players use “volley-lites,” which are lighter and softer than standard volleyballs. This year, the teams are only scrimmaging against one another, but next year, other schools will be invited in for friendly matches outside the official MAISL league.
“If we do it well we will have kids and families that can’t wait to compete with MCDS uniforms,” MCDS Athletic Director Annie Gravel said. Preparing lower school students for competitive sports in Middle School will strengthen the teams and make an overall stronger program full of students with a long-term love of the sport, she said.
“I think it’s a really fun way for kids to make friends and it’s a good team sport,” Chloe ‘35 said.
Starting sports at a younger age allows kids to become developmentally competitive, learning the importance of being on both the winning and losing side of something.
“We want them to be gracious winners and not sore losers,” Gravel said.
This program helps students recognize strengths and weaknesses, work towards goals and improvements, and help others to recognize the importance of teaching athletics and not just competing. It provides a nurturing and good environment to give a sense of fun and belonging, allowing younger athletes to experience the importance of teamwork.
“Volleyball taught me about hard work and leadership, but when I look back, I don’t remember the scores on the scoreboard,” Carlson said. “I remember moments of perseverance with my teammates, moments when I finally mastered a new skill, and the pride of being a student athlete.”
“I was forced into it, but I wanted to try out new sports,” Margo ’34 said. “I think volleyball’s very fun, and I’ve never done it before.”
With the right focus, starting sports at a young age can be beneficial, Gravel said. Students are being introduced to foundational skills and experience the joy of being part of a team. By prioritizing fun and personal improvement over winning and perfection, kids develop a lifelong relationship with athletics, and will reach middle school with a strong foundation, sense of teamwork, and a clear understanding of the game.
