Bryan High's Madi Polasek
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
So, where did it all begin for the incoming senior outside hitter?
“I started when I was in about second grade,” said Polasek. “I came home with a flyer that was for Upward Volleyball here in College Station and I thought it would be a fun thing to do. So, I made my older sister join with me because – being the youngest – you don’t want to do anything by yourself.
“From there, I progressed to club volleyball (TAV Houston, then BCS Skyline) and that’s where I really found my passion. I got caught up in all the work that goes into it, getting reps everyday, countless hours of preparation. Once you find something like that, it really shows you what you’re capable of.”
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Unfortunately, her journey hit a snag over the course of the summer, when something unexpected happened that altered Polasek’s trajectory heading into this season.
When she was tubing on the lake with her friends and sister, she sustained a knee injury when she and the tube flipped over at a sharp angle, resulting in her requiring surgery.
Consequently, that meant that she would be unable to play during her final year on the Bryan High squad.
Despite that, Polasek isn’t one to indulge in self-pity.
“After the injury, I already knew that I couldn’t dwell on the past,” she said. “There’s nothing to do about it now. So, my mentality going into this last season is to understand that it’s going to be rocky at first. But I hope to be a positive role model and help guide others to reach their full potential, with a newer perspective.”
Polasek’s steadfast optimism is sure to be infectious for her teammates, when she takes on a slightly different role this Fall, alongside first-year head coach Emily Hubacek.
Considering the determination she’s shown up to this point, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to know what her future might hold.
“Once I graduate, I plan on hopefully getting a scholarship to play volleyball in college,” Polasek said. “Then, I intend to get my Bachelor’s degree and go into the cosmetology field. I love doing hair and making people feel beautiful, in order for them to express themselves in the best way. So, hopefully I pass my state board exam this year, because I’ve got a lot of hours I need to reach.”
In life, we are often defined by our resiliency in the face of adversity, and Madi Polasek is no exception.
After all, the way in which she has carried herself has equated to her becoming a remarkable student-athlete with tremendous resolve.
She may not be back inaction for some time, but the fact remains that her future is still bright.
Rudder's Jaquise Martin
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I grew up playing basketball because of my Mom,” he laughed. “But my homeboys in middle school were always telling me I was better at football. I made varsity as a freshman in football and the rest is history.
“My Mom and I are really close, but I want to be the best in the family. That’s the real title I’m shooting for.”
Martin was the District Newcomer of the Year for his sophomore season, when he accounted for nearly 1,000 yards of offense and 10 scores. He improved on that number as a junior with another 1,000 yards and 12 scores.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
The receiver also stars on the basketball team, where he averaged over 14 points per game in 2023 and has set a school record in the long-jump for the track and field team. He also runs sprints and relays.
“Playing varsity as a freshman really set me up,” he said. “It just gave me so much confidence in all the sports I played. I also learned from the older guys about leadership and dedication. Being around them really took my game to another level. It was key to my development.”
While he was offered by his Mom’s Alma Mater Texas Tech, Martin wanted to chart his own path. The Red Raider legacy committed to Tulsa University in the spring.
“The coaches have just built a great relationship with me,” he said. “They are always checking on me and staying in constant communication with my family. It will be an adjustment being away from home, but I’m excited for the next part of my journey.”
The future Hurricane, however, has his focus on the 2024 Rudder football season as he takes one last ride with his “homeboys”.
2024-25 Rudder Ranger FootballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“We have the experience under our belts, so we should have a great season,” he said. “We just have to continue to communicate and keep our composure when something bad happens. We have to go 100-percent all the time.”
With the resume he has built, has he earned the title for the “best athlete” in his family?
Stay tuned.
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