Southmoore's Madison Shay – Academic Athlete of the Month Presented by Republic Bank & Trust

By Kelsey Baucom

Southmoore senior Madison Shay started playing soccer when she was eight years old. She is a defensive midfielder for the Lady Sabercats, but she also plays center back, outside back, and attacking mid. The reason she picked it up in the first place is because her mother wanted her to join a sport so that she could cultivate social and team skills.

“[My mother] gave me an ultimatum,” said Shay. “Play soccer with my best friend or do cheerleading with my older sister. I chose soccer with my best friend, and I’m very glad that I did.”

Shay’s senior season is looking like a comeback story. She is returning to the game from a torn ACL and meniscus, which she has worked very hard to recover from.

“To return to playing, I had to work harder than I ever have, be patient, and keep a positive attitude,” she said. “Being forced to sit out for six months reignited my love for the sport and gave me a newfound appreciation for my health. Since I’ve been released, my goals are to play without hesitation and gain confidence in my body again. I’m trying to play just as good, if not better, than before my injury.”

Aside from soccer, Shay is also a member of Southmoore’s National Honor Society and Multicultural Club. An Academic All-State nominee with a 4.61 GPA and a 32 ACT score, she takes her academics just as seriously as athletics.

“I have multiple things that motivate me to be successful in the classroom,” said Shay. “I have always loved learning and the school environment, so I want to be there to expand my knowledge. Thinking about the future also motivates me to succeed in the classroom because I know putting in the work now will benefit me in the future.”

Shay is also motivated by her family and the Southmoore staff, who have poured into her education over the years. She aims to make them proud and appreciates all that they have done for her. One teacher in particular who has had an impact is her AP Calculus BC teacher Mrs. Hurt.

“Mrs. Hurt is an amazing teacher because she is passionate about teaching and math, is patient, and always makes it a priority to be available to her students for help,” said Shay. “She is reliable, considerate, respectful, and extremely helpful. I enjoy her class because it challenges me to be a better student.”

Shay is still making her final decisions on what college she will attend and her field of study. She is interested in science and mathematics, and hopes to continue playing soccer wherever she is. Beyond college, Shay’s goal is to spend her life “improving people’s lives and giving back to my community.”