Madison Elizabeth McCallister, a 15-year-old Cabell Midland High School sophomore, calls Salt Rock home. She shares her life with her supportive parents, Denver and Beth McCallister, and her younger brother Grayson, 14. Grayson is a budding athlete in football and wrestling at Milton Middle School and is also known for his dedication to working out and staying fit.

For Maddie, life revolves around softball, where she shines as a catcher and utility player for CMHS and her travel team, the Unity Amsler/Johnson 16U National Team. Her journey into the sport began when she was just 10 years old. “I had been experimenting with different sports for a few years,” Maddie told Stroll Barboursville. “But when I stumbled upon softball, I just had this feeling—everything felt right.”

After four years of dedicated participation, Maddie’s list of achievements speaks for itself. She’s was ranked in 2203 as the #29 catcher in the U.S. for the 2027 class by Extra Inning Softball and has earned multiple USSSA Select30 invitations. She also holds a spot on the PrepSoftball 2025 Top Prospect List for West Virginia and was named to Extra Inning Softball’s 1st Team All-Region North-East in 2024.

Maddie credits much of her growth and success to her travel team coaches, Josh Johnson and Dave Amsler. “They took a chance on me when I was injured and needed surgery. They could have easily let me go, but they stood by me, encouraged me, and made the entire experience feel more like a family than just a team,” she said.

It’s this family-like bond that Maddie treasures most about her teammates. Despite time apart, they can jump straight back into laughter and support each other in their pursuit of excellence. “We all push each other to be the very best and hold each other accountable,” Maddie shared.

Her resilience was truly tested when she returned to the field after surgery. That moment remains her favorite memory. “It was the first tournament I played after my surgery, and that was when I finally realized how much I love the sport and how badly I missed it,” Maddie recalled with emotion.

Softball has taught Maddie invaluable life lessons, including leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of hard work. These qualities drive her toward a bright future. After high school, she plans to play Division I softball and study biology.

Her advice to young athletes? “Work so hard they can’t ignore you.”

Maddie’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and passion. Whether it’s on the field or in life, she embodies the spirit of someone destined for great achievements. Her story is one that makes our community proud.