Coming out of exams, Assumption's Madelyn Rousseau will find herself in the stretch run of her high school career. It's 2024 and the excitement of committing to Michigan State University is starting to feel real. "The journey has been surreal, and I'm beyond escstatic to have the opportunity to play at the highest level of collegiate soccer." said the 17-year old.
Rousseau describes her recruiting journey as atypical because of the pandemic and her lack knowledge surrounding NCAA regulations and customs. She says June 15 is a significant day as universities can officially begin recruiting sophmore students. Players attend ID camps prior to that day to showcase their talent but Rousseau missed out on that opportunity. "As a result, I attended a few ID camps well after this date, hoping to initiate my recruiting process." Rousseau said.
Fortunately, school's took notice. By the end of the summer of 2022 Rousseau had received a full-ride offer from a mid-major D1 school and kept in contact with others that were interested. Then Michigan State came calling and all bets were off. "In November, I verbally committed to MSU, making my recruiting process short yet sweet." Rousseau said.
While she's had some great coaches throughout her youth, Rousseau says her parents were instrumental in shaping her soccer career taking her to the U.S. on the daily. "Additionally, they have always emphasized the importance of discipline, dedication and perseverance. Traits that have not only shaped my athletic career but have also become invaluable life skills."
For as long as she remembers earning a scholarship has always been a goal. She values the idea of excellence on the field and in the classroom. Once her final exam is over Wednesday she'll enjoy her birthday Friday before embracing the last few months of high school days.
She'll also focus on preparing for the next chapter of her soccer career at Michigan State. Rousseau hopes to get stronger as she contiues playing for the Nationals Blue 05-06 team in the Girls Academy League. "I am focused on maximizing my time with the ball to maintain confidence in my performance as a player."