Women's Soccer

Student-Athlete Spotlight: Madelyn Johnson, UW-River Falls

Each week during the 2025-26 academic year, the WIAC will feature two student-athletes (one male and one female) from one of its eight institutions for a “Student-Athlete Spotlight” Q & A segment. The segments will be posted every Thursday and individuals are selected by the institution. The WIAC Student-Athlete Spotlights are presented by Culver's.

Name:  Madelyn Johnson
Institution:  UW-River Falls
Hometown and High School:  Oak Grove, Minn. (St. Francis High School)
Year in school:  Junior
Sport:  Women’s Soccer
Majors:  Ecology and Organismal Biology
Minor: Animal Science

Why did you choose UW-River Falls?
I chose UW–River Falls because I was drawn to its strong academic programs and the welcoming, small-town atmosphere. It offered the perfect balance, close enough to home that I could still see my parents, but far enough away to give me a real sense of independence.
 
What other clubs/organizations on campus are you involved in?
I used to play intermural basketball and have recently started going to SAAC (Student Athletic Advisory Committee) and InterVarsity. SAAC is a committee composed of student-athletes who work to enhance the student-athlete experience by promoting opportunities, protecting student welfare, and fostering a positive image for athletes on campus and in the community. InterVarsity is a student and faculty-led faith group that supports athletes in deepening their relationship with God and discovering their identity through their faith.

What do you like most about competing in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and being a NCAA Division III student-athlete?
What I enjoy most about competing in the WIAC and being a Division III student-athlete is the sense of community it brings. The competition is tough, which pushes me to keep improving, but at the same time I’ve built close friendships with my teammates and athletes from other sports. I love that I get to represent my university while still having the time to focus on my academics and enjoy the college experience.
 
What is your favorite…
Menu item from Culver’s?  Butter Burger
Flavor of the Day from Culver’s?  Dark Chocolate PB Crunch
Non-Athletic Spot on Campus?  Picnic tables by the Kinni River
TV Show?  The Office
Holiday?  Christmas
Food?  Wings
Animal?  Wolves
Smartphone App?  Snapchat because it’s easy to capture funny pictures and memories of friends
Musical Group or Artist?  Country Music or Thomas Rhett
Professional Sports Athlete or Team?  Vikings
Vacation Spot?  Montana or Colorado
 
What is your greatest sports moment? 
Going undefeated and making it to the state tournament my junior year of high school soccer.
 
What is your favorite thing to do off the court/field with your teammates?
Going to get food after a tough practice or painting glasses and canvases while listening to music and talking about our week.
 
Who is someone that you look up to?
I really look up to both of my parents. They have always been there for me and pushed me to perform well in my sports and in life.
 
Do you have any words of advice for younger/upcoming student-athletes?
Don’t let your performance in your sport define who you are, let your character and the friendships you build show your true self
 
One word that describes you?
Compassionate
 
What is your dream job? 
My dream job is to travel around the world and track endangered species.
 
Three things on your "bucket list"?
---Backpack across Europe
---Go off-grid camping
---To see the Himalayan Mountains
 
A non-athletic talent that you have is?
Painting

What’s your dream sporting event to attend?
Vikings Super Bowl Championship
 
Do you have any pre-game/pre-event superstitions or rituals? If so, what are they?
Before every game, I have a routine that I stick to. I always start with an energy drink and at least one full bottle of water. When I’m getting ready, I put on my right sock first, then my left, then my right shin guard, and so on. I also tie my cleats in the same order. Music is also a must, whether it’s with my teammates or through my headphones, it helps get the extra nerves out. And lastly, my teammate Lauren Gregory and I always make sure we’re wearing matching pre-wrap before heading out to the field.
 
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