Bio

Position: Outside Hitter
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Meridianville, Alabama
High School: Hazel Green High School
High School Graduation: 2026

Madeline French is a freshman outside hitter from Meridianville, Alabama, and a 2026 graduate of Hazel Green High School. French began playing volleyball in the fifth grade and developed into a determined and competitive player.

One of her favorite high school athletic memories was advancing to the state championship with her teammates. The experience strengthened her appreciation for teamwork and competing for a shared goal.

French chose Wallace State because of the welcoming atmosphere created by the players and coaches. She was also drawn to the program’s winning tradition and the opportunity to be challenged as she continues developing.

“The team and coaches made me feel welcome, and they will push me to become better,” French said. “It is a winning program.”

French credits Wallace State head coach Randy Daniel with having the greatest impact on her athletic journey. His guidance has helped her grow as a player and prepare for the demands of college volleyball.

Her proudest moment as a Wallace State athlete so far has been improving her hitting and passing during spring practices.

College athletics has taught French that success requires complete mental involvement.

“You have to be mentally in the sport, or you won’t succeed,” French said.

French balances volleyball and academics by setting goals, establishing priorities and making time for rest and recovery. She understands that taking care of herself physically and mentally allows her to perform at a high level in the classroom and on the court.

Her personal goal is to thrive within the Wallace State program and do everything she can to help the team succeed. Her team goals include reaching the NJCAA National Championship and winning the national title.

“I want to thrive on this team and do my best to help my teammates,” French said. “I want us to go to the NJCAA National Championship and win.”

Her favorite practice drill involves hitting and blocking from the middle and outside positions. The drill allows her to work on multiple areas of her game while competing at the net.

Before matches, French listens to music that helps her focus and prepare to compete. Her go-to hype song is “Ride the Lightning” by Metallica.

French mentally prepares for competition by visualizing herself passing and hitting successfully in game-like situations. This helps her build confidence and remain focused on her responsibilities.

She believes her teammates would describe her as motivated and someone who consistently encourages others.

Had she not chosen volleyball, French said she would likely play basketball.

Her favorite professional athlete is Jordan Larson. French admires Larson’s grit, hustle and determination to overcome obstacles.

“She has grit and a hustle mindset and is motivated to overcome anything that comes her way,” French said.

A fun fact about French is that she loves to cook and bake. Those are also two of her favorite hobbies outside volleyball.

After college, French wants to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist and hopes to be someone others can look up to.

During her time at Wallace State, French wants to be remembered as a hardworking athlete who competed with grit and determination and was willing to do whatever it took to win.

Her advice to younger athletes is to avoid allowing small mistakes to affect the next play.

“Don’t get in your head over little mistakes,” French said. “Move on and make the next move even better.”