At Her Sports San Diego, we are thrilled to share our conversation about UC San Diego middle-blocker Madi Johnson. At 6’3”, from Temecula (via Chaparral High School and Forza 1 Volleyball Club), Madi built on a strong freshman season highlighted by a six-block, four-kill outing against UNLV, with an even bigger sophomore year. She more than tripled her starts to 17 and raised her averages to 1.51 points, 1.08 kills and 0.53 blocks per set, finishing the season with 70 kills, 35 blocks (six solo), 10 digs, eight service aces and 97.5 points.
 
Take us back. When did you know volleyball was your sport?
For a few years, I had bounced around sports, trying to find the one that would be mine. My mom played Division 1 volleyball and when I hadn’t fallen in love with any of the sports I had tried, she asked if volleyball would be something I’d like to try and I agreed. I started playing volleyball in 5th grade and absolutely fell in love with it. I loved the competitiveness, the technicalities, the team involvement, and the girls I was playing with. From that moment on, I knew it would be my sport and the one I would strive to play at the highest level.

Why did you choose UC San Diego when you went to college?
I chose UC San Diego for a number of reasons. When i was going through the recruiting process, having a high academic school was a priority for me. Given that it is a nationally ranked academic school, this easily checked that box. The school is also located in an amazing area with so much around it and so much to do! The beach is just a short walk away and the campus is stunning, not to mention the amazing San Diego weather. Most importantly, the girls on the team are the most amazing group of girls and each and every one of us have such an amazing relationship. Everyone was and is so kind and welcoming. I am truly grateful for the group of girls that this program has brought together because they are not only all amazing athletes but incredible people! 
 
With the coaching changing during the off-season, what excites you about the upcoming season?
Getting to know and work with the new staff has been amazing! They are such an amazing group and learning and implementing the new systems has been a lot of fun!  I’m super excited to see it come to life in our upcoming matches and get this season started off on a high note!

When you hear the crowd go wild, what runs through your mind?
To be honest, I don't usually hear the crowd. When I'm playing, I'm usually super focused so I tend to drown out all other noise, comments, etc. When I do hear the crowd though, I feel a wave of excitement and pure joy. It almost feels like I'm getting the chills from how awesome the environment is. Having a big crowd is always so much fun, especially when they are involved in the game. I truly think that the crowd is something that makes the experience and the memorability of the games so much better because it is another component that makes playing the sport so much more rewarding! 
 
What is your favorite fan moment so far?
Hmm that is tough to say. Honestly, any moment with a fan or even people who love volleyball and come up to talk is so cool! It is great to get to meet new people and inspire younger girls and get to talk to them and even give them advice. I also love when we do autographs after some of our games because we get to meet those who come out to support and get to see some familiar faces in the stands. Any experience with fans is always so awesome and I am so grateful for the opportunities like these.
 
Finish this sentence. I feel unstoppable when…
…I'm in my rhythm. To me this means my team and I are flowing and I am fully confident in myself and my ability to execute. It also means that there is good energy and lots of celebration on the court and we are all having the best time playing the sport we love!
 
An athlete’s life can be nonstop. What do you do to ground yourself when things get crazy?
Being an athlete especially when we are in season can be a lot, and it’s even more intense at this school with its rigorous academics. I think my mindset is one big thing that keeps me grounded. My dad always told me growing up to be positive and that is something that has stuck with me. Finding the good in things even when it’s stressful can make all the difference and is a good reminder that every day and every opportunity is a blessing. Aside from that, my parents and sister, my boyfriend, my roommates who are my teammates and best friends as well as all of my other friends and family are what really keep me grounded. I truly don’t know what i would do without their love and support.

Who’s your dream sponsor?
Vuori and Lulu Lemon
 
Have you ever bought something because an athlete was wearing it? 
No, I don’t think so.
 
What is a non-sport accomplishment that you're most proud of? 
Ooh this is a tough one. I'm really not sure about this one because volleyball is such a big part of my life but I would say my academic success overall. Since I was little I always was deeply invested in excelling in school. All of the achievements and awards I've gotten from maintaining good grades and working hard while balancing volleyball and extracurriculars is something I am proud of.
 
When you hear the word fandom, what is the first thing that pops into your mind? 
The first thing I think of is a big stadium filled up with great fans that love the sport and love the team more. I think of a fun playing environment with high energy and overall a really fun game.

Wishing Madi and her team all the best as the season begins!