Madison Country Day School’s athletics program is undergoing a total transformation this spring, with the tennis program at the center of this shift. What began as a much smaller co-op program only two years ago has climbed to become a multi-level varsity team, driven by the students’ leadership and eagerness to take on new opportunities. 

Expanding the Roster

The 2026 season kicked off with a major coaching change, introducing Head Coach Brad Pagnucci and Coach Stephanie Drews-Sheldon to the Prairie Hawk community. Their arrival came with an increase in participation so large that the program was forced to restructure with Varsity, Junior Varsity 1, and Exhibition (JV2) levels to accommodate student-athletes.

“Coach Brad has great coaching and playing experience,” Maddox ’26 said, “and Coach Stephanie also has tennis experience and is an MCDS teacher.” 

“I’m happy to see how much our team has grown, even since last year,” Lily ’27 added. “It’s a fun and supportive group, and we’re ready for the start of our season.” 

This expanded roster, including a co-op with Abundant Life Christian School and St. Ambrose Academy, has changed the stakes at practice. 

Audrey ’27 noted that the new depth allows the program to be two things: a high-level competitive environment and a welcoming space to those new to the game. 

“Since the team is so big this year, there is a wide range of skills,” Audrey said. “The growth allows new players to enjoy learning and playing with friends without the pressure of winning matches at meets for points, while naturally increasing the competition for varsity and JV match spots.”

Longevity and commitment of players are making a big difference, too.

“Nearly everyone who didn’t graduate returned to play,” Maddox said. “It means the team is having fun and building experience while welcoming many freshmen who haven’t played before.”

The Road to State 

While the program focuses a lot on personal growth, the varsity goals are set toward the post-season. Pagnucci is focused on training the team to their absolute best and aims for regional and state standings.

“My specific goals are to send multiple players to State and to place in the top three teams at the sectional meet,” Pagnucci said. 

After placing 6th at sectionals last year and only sending three players, the team is aiming for a podium finish. 

MCDS Athletic Director Annie Gravel confirmed that the spotlight is on senior leader Maddox to lead that charge. 

“I believe we will send Maddox, our first singles player, to State,” Gravel said. “He has a streak of consecutive appearances, and I’d love to see us send a doubles team alongside him this year.” 

Maddox is ready for the challenge of a tougher schedule. “I’m excited to play some of the state’s most difficult opponents to help prepare for the postseason,” he said. “My main goal is to make the podium again and go further than I did last year, but ultimately, I just want a great senior season with my teammates.” 

Next Fall’s Historic Plans 

The most significant milestone, however, is coming to MCDS next year. Gravel has officially revealed that MCDS has built enough momentum to launch a Girls’ Varsity Tennis Team for the Fall 2026 season. This move marks a leap from the co-ed spring format, giving female athletes their own team in the tennis program. 

“The co-op tennis team started two seasons ago with only four girls,” Lily said. “Next year we’ll have enough interest to have a girls’ team for the first time. I hope this begins a team that can be sustained for years while continuing to grow and succeed.” 

For Audrey, the fall season is a victory for inclusivity. 

“Because it’s in the fall, it gives athletes who had conflicting spring sports the opportunity to play tennis,” Audrey said. “I’ve talked to a lot of my friends, who have already said they would love to try playing tennis for the first time this fall.” 

A Program on the Move

Growth hasn’t come without logistical issues. Without tennis courts on the MCDS campus, the Hawks continue to rely on Reindall Park for practices. While Gravel confirmed there are no future plans to build tennis courts on campus, the coaching staff and athletes remain persistent.

“This year will be even more competitive,” Maddox said. “Everyone is pushing their teammates to improve, and it feels like everyone knows their role and what they need to do to benefit our team as a whole.” 

So far, the tennis team has seen great success this spring season and the strong lineup of Maddox ’26, Lily ’27, and Leo ’27 leads the way. 

Gravel also mentioned, “Milan ’27, Oden ’27, and seniors Karson ’26 and Rocco ’26 are steady opponents for any of our competition.” 

The team remains undefeated and has many upcoming matches in the next few weeks. Get ready for a few MCDS tennis players representing in the Sectional and WIAA State tournaments coming up. 

“I am most excited to get to know the players on a personal level and help them grow as individuals,” Pagnucci said. “It is rewarding to see the progress made over the course of a few months, both individually and as a team.”