By: Nate Calvin
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
sports@thevillagereporter.com
PIONEER – What started out as a goal to get in the North Central volleyball record books, turned into much more for Maddie Zimmerman over the course of her senior season.
She not only set the school record for digs in a season with 483, but she also became the first Lady Eagle to reach 1,000 career digs, finishing with 1,052.
“This accomplishment means so much. Being the first volleyball player at North Central to reach this milestone is huge for me”, explained Zimmerman.
“Not having faith in myself to accomplish something like this, always doubting my ability, I never thought I could actually do it.”
“It’s always been a dream to get 1,000 digs or at least some type of school record; to get a plaque with my name on it or my name and picture in the paper. Never thought I would get all three.”
“Being on varsity for only three years truly made me think it wasn’t possible to even come close to 1,000 digs. But low and behold ended my career with over 1,000 digs.”
“It also means a lot because playing the Libero position you hardly get that recognition, it always about the kills”, added Zimmerman, who is also a member of the North Central basketball team.
“People always forget you need a good pass and set to get a kill, so this milestone not only proves myself but everyone else as well.”
“I’ve always had a love for volleyball, but it wasn’t until around age 9 or 10 that I started playing for other teams. I was a water girl throughout elementary school, so I was always around the game.”
“My family has kept me involved in as much as possible from fifth grade until now. The private lessons, the late night warmups, and the pep talks. The non-stop encouragement and being my #1 fan has helped me to meet my milestone
“Maddie’s passion for volleyball and fun-loving attitude make her a special player”, said Katlyn Jones who just finished her second season leading the Eagles.” “She is a great teammate and friend to those around her. Her teammates trust her, and she trusts her teammates.”
“Maddie has made tremendous growth over her high school career. She put in the work during the off-season and had specific goals she wanted to achieve. She is a versatile player and adjusts in any situation”, added Jones.
“Her confidence has grown as well, and it shows when you watch her play the sport she loves.”
For younger players, Zimmerman has advice to be successful. “Volleyball is a mental sport, and it is okay to make mistakes.”
“Put in that extra work and extra time; it never goes unnoticed. But most importantly, HAVE FUN! It truly goes by so fast, so you don’t want to be too hard on yourself.”
“Friendships, memories, and accomplishments. Hearing my name on the loudspeaker because I beat a record, something you’ll never forget the cheers and excitement from others”, said Zimmerman when talking about what she’ll take away from her high school career.
“A huge shoutout to my girls! Could truly not have been able to do it all without my teammates. I hold them all so dear to my heart and can’t wait to watch them accomplish their goals.”
