Athlete of the Week: Madison Wehr, Olympia High girls volleyball

Olympia High girls volleyball player Madison Wehr has already accomplished more as a junior than other players can hope for over their entire careers. As the Olympia’s starting setter since her freshman season in 2022, the 5-foot-10 setter already surpassed the 1,000-assist mark — with 1,138 total over 163 sets played. 

During the Titans’ historic 2023 season — which saw them finish with a 22-7 record and win back-to-back Class 7A, District 5 titles and the program’s first Metro Conference Championship since 2007 — Wehr was a major weapon for the Titans. She dished out 725 assists and had 43 aces and only 17 errors in 370 serve attempts. She also added 38 kills and 244 digs. 

The Basics

Sport: Girls volleyball

Position: Setter

Grade: Junior

School: Olympia High

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week? 

It feels great! I’ve put a lot of work into volleyball over the summer, and I’ve progressed a lot as an athlete.

What do you like most about volleyball?

I love the level of intensity and the pace of the game. You always have to be moving and making smart decisions to make a point.

After a historic season, what do you all have to do to maintain or exceed that success in 2024?

We have the expectation that we can win districts and make a far run to states, so now we keep putting in effort in practice and in games. We all push each other to do better every day and give each other the confidence to succeed on the court!

As a captain, how have you taken up the leadership role left behind by last year’s seniors?

As a captain, I encourage people to put in effort and just do their best! There are big goals to reach this year, and we all have to work as one to achieve them. I also bring a sense of energy to the court that makes my team want to win!

What is your goal this season?

My biggest goal for the team this season is to win metros and districts and make it far in regionals or states. Anything is possible if you have the drive to do it! My personal goal is to achieve the school record for assists and leave a legacy at Olympia.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from volleyball?

I’ve learned that it’s OK to make mistakes. Volleyball is a game that’s built on mistakes; that’s how you score a point. Moving on to the next point and bouncing back is important in close games, so not being so hard on yourself and being more clearheaded is something volleyball has taught me that’ll I use every day in life.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

My favorite athlete is Jordyn Poulter! She’s the setter on the U.S. Olympic team, and I love the way she runs the court and how smart she is when spreading the ball around.

Favorite volleyball memory?

Winning back-to-back district titles and winning metros — which hasn’t been done in years. For club volleyball, when we got third at AAU nationals, that was a great feeling!

What’s your go-to pregame meal?

Definitely Starbucks’ strawberry açaí refresher or Chick-fil-A’s chicken nugget meal. They always give me energy before a game!

What’s your go-to pregame hype song?

My pregame hype song is “Fancy” by Drake. 

What is your favorite non-sport hobby?

My favorite non-sport hobby is shopping with friends.

What is your favorite subject in school?

My favorite subject in school is English. I’ve always been good at writing, and I find it a good way to express myself! I also enjoy reading and find books super interesting.

What are three things you’d take to a deserted island and why? 

First thing I would take is a tent, so I can have coverage in any weather condition. I would also bring my dad with me, because he can fish and cook food for me. I would bring a fishing pole so we can catch dinner. 

What is your favorite movie and why?

My favorite movie is “50 First Dates” because it’s funny and cute with a good, happy ending.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Let everything work itself out, don’t stress about things that have already passed, and focus on the future!

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I’d want to read minds, so I know what people are thinking when I talk to them.

What is your most controversial food take?

Steak should be cooked all the way through, no pink or red, just brown. Well done is the only right way for it to be cooked.

Does pineapple belong on pizza? 

No! Fruit doesn’t belong on pizza, only cheese and sauce.