With the 2022 campaign having come to a close, Owensboro Catholic’s Maddie Hayden has been recognized for her strong senior season by becoming the back-to-back Owensboro Times Girls Soccer Player of the Year.
“I feel honored to receive this award two years in a row,” Hayden said. “I am thankful that I have such a great team and coaching staff. I’m glad that we got this far since it’s my last year playing soccer.”
Hayden’s dominance on the pitch was on display once again this season, leading the team in goals (34), assists (20) and points (88) with a near 20-point differential with the second best on the team. The Lady Aces senior was thrilled with the way she and her team played this season, accomplishing a number of goals they had coming into the 2022 campaign.
“Some of my goals this season was to win district, region, make it to state, and win All A State,” Hayden said. “We finished runner up in All A State, but we accomplished so much this season as a team.”
Hayden’s exemplary play offensively has her fourth all-time in goals for Owensboro Catholic with 96, while also sitting fifth all-time in assists at 55. Hayden credits her mindset in each game as well as her teammates and coaches for the success that she’s had during her high school career.
“I think my competitiveness and determination has been a big factor in being the player I am today,” Hayden said. “Having great teammates and coaches is what allows me to do my part for the team.”
Hayden was able to help Owensboro Catholic to its third consecutive 9th District Championship, a 3rd Region Championship and an 18-6-1 finish as their season came to a close in the Elite Eight in a memorable senior season.
“I will remember all the memories with the team and the achievements we accomplished together,” Hayden said. “Owensboro Catholic soccer is something that will always be a part of me and I will be forever grateful for.”
Maddie is thankful for all the coaches that pushed her to become the best player possible, while also thrilled to have had family and friends that supported her and Owensboro Catholic soccer. As for her future plans after soccer, Hayden has a senior basketball season that she is preparing for before attending the University of Kentucky in the fall 0f 2023 following graduation.
