There are a number of things that can be a catalyst to push an athlete to work hard to be their best. For some, it is winning a championship, an award, or an honor. But others may be just working each day to get a little bit better. Seeing a little improvement each day can be what drives them. 

Maddie Griswold is a junior at Afton High School where she is a member of the basketball and track teams. She says that getting up each day and seeing what is ahead of her is what keeps her going.

“I love the challenge and the competition,” she said. “In life, every day is not the same and the same holds true for sports. You have to be ready to put in the extra work if necessary. Over the years, I have put in a lot of hard work, and I have been dedicated to being the best that I can be.”

Afton girls track coach Bobby J. Shinn, states that Griswold is the epitome of a team player. 

“Overall, Maddie is a very versatile player that can help us out in many different ways,” the coach said. “She is all about the team. She does not compete in any individual event because her team needs her on every relay. She steps us wherever and whenever the team needs her. She is a huge asset to this team.”

While her coaches and teammates have great respect and appreciation for her, Maddie says that her biggest role models are people that have been in her corner since day one. 

“My parents are the people that I look up to the most,” she said. “They always push me to get better each day. If it wasn’t for them, I would not be the person I am today.”

Along with sports, Maddie is a member of the student council and the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.