BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – It’s not often that North Dakota high school athletes are recognized on the national stage, much less for volleyball. But Bismarck High’s Madison Foster is breaking the norm as we put her into this week’s Sports Spotlight.

Bismarck High’s Madison Foster may play the most underrated position on the volleyball court.

“It can be hard sometimes,” Foster admitted.

The senior libero has done her part defensively to lead the Demons to an undefeated start in conference play, and she’s finally getting the recognition she deserves. The Demons are 3-0 in the WDA so far this year.

“That was very heartwarming, honestly, and it shocked me,” Foster said. “I was very proud of myself.”

Foster was recently named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-American watch list, which is an honor earned by just two North Dakota athletes this year.

“That was mind-blowing, honestly,” Foster said. “I didn’t expect it. I think just knowing that over the years I’ve overcome a lot of things, and it shows that hard work pays off, even if you’re not getting that recognition right away, eventually it will come.”

The hard work has been consistent throughout Foster’s career.

“She’s put in so much work,” Demons Head Coach Brianna Kline said. “She’s never satisfied with what she does, which is what you want out of an athlete “

Foster started playing the game in elementary school as a setter and has played the same position up until her sophomore season with the Demons.

“It can be hard sometimes,” Foster said. “I used to get hard on myself, but I’ve realized this is my role. I’m going to do what I can. Brianna has helped me a lot filling that role over the couple of years. I think I just knew that I needed to do it, and just talking to my teammates, talking to my coaches, they’ve really helped me understand that position.”

Foster is fostering her role, embracing being a leader and helping the Demons take the next step while she shines on the national level.

“Just knowing that someone saw it and they want to give me that recognition, I think that feels very great and it makes me very happy,” Foster said. “It makes me want to do more things and accomplish more things, and just get after it.”

Foster is undecided about where she will attend college, but she hopes to pursue a degree in psychology and potentially play volleyball at the next level.

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