Madelyn Johnson, a senior at St. Francis High School, was named the Athena Award recipient for her outstanding efforts as an athlete, student and citizen.
“I’m honored to be recognized for doing the things I love to do and the sports I love to play,” said Johnson, who was a standout soccer and basketball player for the Saints.
She lists being the first St. Francis soccer team to go to state as her most important school sport achievement.
These accomplishments, Johnson said, would not have been possible without those who pushed her, and her teammates, to not only make it to state but to a 32-game home unbeaten streak and back-to-back Mississippi 8 Conference championships in soccer.
“I would like to thank my coaches and community for always being there and believing in me,” she said.
One of those coaches is also someone who has been her chief supporter since day one: her mom, Joan Johnson.
“It has been so much fun being able to coach Maddie for the past 14 years and even more amazing to see all the hard work and hours of practice all pay off in both soccer and basketball,” said Joan. “For her to love sports and competition as much as I do has been a true joy as a parent and above all to excel in the classroom is outstanding and the most important thing overall.”
Following graduation this year, Johnson plans to attend University of Wisconsin-River Falls where she intends to study animal science.
“My family has always been there for me throughout my sports and education,” she said.
Watching Madelyn compete for so many years filled her mom and family with so many great sports-related memories. But, one stands out above all others for Joan.
“One of my favorite memories of Maddie playing was when we played a top ranked forward in the state,” she said. “Maddie plays center defender and she was NOT going to let her score! She worked so hard as an individual and also to motivate her teammate to make this player's game non-existent that night. She was also able to do this with a smile and great character.”
Each year the Minneapolis Athena Awards program hosts a ceremony to honor the recipients. This year’s ceremony is today at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Minneapolis.