The PACK PERSPECTIVE, our series providing Madison College student-athletes - both current and former - an opportunity to share about the experiences of competing for and belonging to the WolfPack in their own voice. The second installment comes from women's volleyball player, Addyson McHugh...

My two years at Madison College have been nothing short of amazing. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I knew it was a place where I would thrive both athletically and academically. Madison College has given me countless opportunities and has truly become a place that feels like home. Playing college volleyball has been a dream of mine since I was a freshman in high school. I dedicated myself to training and preparing for this moment, putting in endless hours in the gym, studying film, lifting in the weight room, and getting as many reps as possible. All that hard work paid off. Choosing to continue my athletic career at Madison College was an easy decision, and I can honestly say I wouldn't trade these two years for anything.
 
As much as I would love to say things were never hard, there were many challenges faced. Adjusting to life here wasn't always easy. Coming from a small town and transitioning to a bigger city was a big shift, and being so far from family made it even harder. For the first time, I had to learn how to live on my own, which included figuring out how to cook my own meals - definitely a challenge. But thanks to the constant support from my coaches and teammates, things slowly started to feel more manageable, and Madison began to feel like home.

As a freshman, I was one of the few students from out of state, so while many of my peers were able to go home to their families, I couldn't. Fortunately, my coaches and teammates, along with their families, really took me in and made sure I didn't feel so isolated. Whether it was inviting me over for a home-cooked meal or just hanging out to help take my mind off missing home, their kindness made a huge difference. The campus itself is great, but what truly makes this place special are the amazing people here.


 
The volleyball journey wasn't always easy. To say humbling might actually be an understatement. Coming from a small school where I was the standout player, the transition to a team full of extremely talented athletes was a huge challenge. I went from being the go-to player on my team to stepping into an environment where every single person was skilled, and playing time wasn't automatically guaranteed. Every practice felt like a competition to prove myself, and there were days when I questioned whether I was good enough to keep up with such a talented group. At times, it was easy to get frustrated or discouraged. Some might have even said, "This sucks," because of how tough the competition was. But for me, it was a valuable experience that pushed me in ways I hadn't expected. The chance to walk into the gym every single day and compete at such a high level was both motivating and rewarding. It wasn't just about playing volleyball; it was about testing my limits, learning from the best, and constantly striving to improve.

I quickly realized that I couldn't rely on past success or coast through on old habits. I had to work harder than ever before, stay focused, and be willing to put in the effort every single day. As I continued to push myself, my hard work started to pay off. I earned my playing time on the court and, eventually, took on a leadership role. This new responsibility taught me how to motivate my teammates, communicate effectively, and lead by example. Skills I will carry with me long after the season ended.
 
I'm so thankful to have been coached by some truly amazing women. They always wanted the best for me, not just as a player, but as a person. They cared deeply about me and showed that through their actions, both on and off the court. They were more than just coaches; they became my family. They pushed me to be my best, supported me through tough times, and celebrated my successes. What made them special was how much they invested in me, not just in terms of volleyball, but in life. They taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and character. I'll always be grateful for their guidance and for the way they made me feel supported, cared for, and part of something bigger than just the game.

Looking back, I'm incredibly grateful for the challenges and growth I've experienced here at Madison College. It wasn't always easy, but each moment has shaped me into a better player, a stronger teammate, and a more resilient person. The lessons I've learned, the relationships I've built, and the opportunities I've had have all contributed to my growth in ways I never expected.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the coaching staff, my teammates, and everyone in the athletic department. Your support, encouragement, and belief in me made all the difference. To my coaches, thank you for not only pushing me to be the best athlete I could be, but for caring about me as a person and showing me what it means to lead with kindness and strength. To my teammates, I'll always cherish the memories we've made and the bond we share, both on and off the court. And to the entire athletic department, thank you for creating an environment where we can grow, learn, and thrive.

These two years at Madison College have truly been a gift, and I'll carry the lessons and memories with me for the rest of my life.



Past Pack Perspectives
Gabe Voung (Men's Soccer) - July 24, 2024

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