Warren High School senior Madyson Long is setting off on a new journey in her athletic career, one that will take her from the Warrior Coliseum to the college courts of Ohio University. On Wednesday morning, Long, surrounded by her family and teammates, officially signed her National Letter of Intent to play volleyball at the Division I level for the Ohio Bobcats, under the guidance of head coach Geoff Carlston.
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This signing marks the culmination of an incredible high school career for Long, whose athletic journey has been full of challenges, triumphs, and remarkable growth. Having spent the first two years of her high school volleyball career at Fort Frye, Long transferred to Warren High School, where she quickly became an indispensable member of the Warriors’ volleyball team. Together with her teammates, she helped lead Warren to an unforgettable season that included reaching the Final Four in Division IV and finishing with a 23-3 record, the school’s first-ever regional championship, and the first district title since 1999.
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A Commitment to Excellence
Long’s decision to commit to Ohio University was not taken lightly. When asked if she had ever wavered from her verbal commitment, Long’s answer was an emphatic “never once.” She attributed her confidence in Ohio to the beauty of the campus, the welcoming nature of the people, and the strong support system offered by the staff, players, and faculty.
“It was the whole environment,” Long said. “The staff, players, faculty—all of them, really sold it to me that this is the place I need to go. Also, living close to home is an ideal situation. I’m close to my family, but still far enough to experience the full college life.”
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Long’s choice was solidified after considering other potential programs, including Marietta College and West Virginia State, but her connection to Ohio University and its volleyball program was undeniable. Her commitment is not just to the sport but to the pursuit of academic excellence as well. Long plans to major in accounting/finance with a minor in business, seeking to combine her love for athletics with her academic ambitions.
A Standout Career at Warren High
Long’s achievements as a player at Warren are nothing short of impressive. Over the course of her high school career, she racked up 1,443 kills, 1,177 digs, 174 blocks, 208 aces, and 873 serve-receptions. Her contributions to the team were vital, earning her recognition as the 2024 District Offensive Player of the Year. She also earned first-team All-OVAC honors three times and was a fixture on the All-District team.
Her leadership was instrumental in Warren’s historic run this season, where the team made school history by advancing to the Final Four. Despite the team’s success, Long remained grounded, reflecting on her growth both on and off the court.
“Looking back, I’ve definitely come a long way from my first years at Fort Frye,” Long shared. “At Fort Frye, I didn’t feel that sense of sisterhood. It was just girls playing together. But when I came to Warren, not only did I have my sister, Makenna, by my side, but all these girls around me became my sisters. That bond made all the difference.”
The Challenges Ahead: Transitioning to Division I Volleyball
As Long embarks on her college journey, she is mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. At Ohio University, she is expected to transition from a primary hitter to a defensive specialist/libero, although she still holds hope that she could eventually transition back to an attacking position.
“Division I volleyball is incredibly competitive,” Long acknowledged. “I know that there are a lot of upperclassmen ahead of me, and it’s not easy to walk in as a freshman and expect to start. But I’m going to give it my all, work hard, and prove myself. I’ll keep pushing for that starting spot, and if that doesn’t happen right away, I’ll keep working until it does.”
Long also expressed some concerns about the balance between academics and athletics. “It’s going to be tough, especially with traveling and the number of hours you have to study each week,” she said. “But I’m disciplined, and I know that I’ll work hard to stay on top of my schoolwork.”
Even though she won’t be competing for her travel team, ALETA, this year, Long is focused on continuing to develop her skills. She plans to spend the summer working on her craft in the gym, while also hitting the weights to prepare for the physical demands of college athletics.
“I want to make sure I stay sharp,” Long said. “I’ll be in the gym, working on my skills, and I’ll also focus on being a mentor to the younger players, helping them develop their skills as I did.”
A Grateful Warrior: Honoring the Journey
As Long prepares to leave Warren and take on the challenges of Division I volleyball, she is deeply grateful for the support she’s received along the way. “I give all credit to God,” she said. “I couldn’t have done this without him. And my family, for being there for me through every game, practice, and every challenge. They’ve always been by my side, and I couldn’t ask for a better support system.”
Her coach, Ann Skufca, echoed Long’s sentiments, expressing how much Madyson’s leadership and dedication will be missed. “Madyson is one of those athletes that builds a program up. She will truly be missed, but we are so proud of how she finished her season and left her mark here at Warren.”
Looking Ahead: Ohio University and Beyond
Long’s future as a Bobcat is filled with possibilities. While she is unsure about what comes next after college, she remains optimistic about her future. Her dedication to her studies and her sport gives her a solid foundation, and she’s excited to take on whatever comes her way.
“The path ahead is a little uncertain, but I know that I’m setting myself up for success,” Long said. “Whether I end up working in accounting or finance, or even in a completely different field, I’m ready to take on the challenges that come my way.”
As Long heads off to Ohio University, she reflects on the incredible journey that has brought her here—from her early years at Fort Frye to the bond she formed with her teammates at Warren. Though her time as a Warrior is coming to a close, the lessons and relationships she’s built will stay with her for the rest of her life.
“I just want to thank the community for supporting us, for coming to our games, for being there when we needed them most,” Long said. “That support has meant the world to us.”
As Madyson Long embarks on this new chapter, there’s no doubt that her journey has only just begun, and that her hard work, dedication, and passion for the game will carry her far in her athletic and academic pursuits.
