SXU Dance Team Student Named NAIA Athlete-Scholar
Saint Xavier University (SXU) Paw Prints dance team member Madeline Kozy has been named a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete for the second year in a row. 176 student-athletes from 47 collegiate institutions were recognized, and to be eligible, a student-athlete must maintain a 3.50 grade point average and be enrolled at their school for at least one calendar year.
As a senior communication sciences and disorders major with a 3.83 GPA, achieving the title of Scholar-Athlete was something Kozy worked hard for. Her priorities have always been to perfect her dance skills while dedicating herself to excelling in the classroom.
"It is such a great accomplishment to be named a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athlete. It feels amazing to be recognized for my hard work both athletically and academically. Staying on top of grades and dancing can be a challenge, and I had to stay organized and prioritize my school responsibilities. I asked for help when needed and found a way to stay on top of my work each week," Kozy said.
While being a student-athlete and juggling practice, dance competitions, homework, studying, and everything in between, Kozy's time with Paw Prints has taught her the best ways to take care of herself and her mental health when life gets hectic.
"My academic and athletic experiences from SXU showed me how important it is to take care of my mental health and stay confident in my abilities. It is super important to give yourself rest and reset days, especially after a week that seemed unforgiving. As I start my career, I will always remember the three most important things my team told me: 'Your best is always good enough, stay positive, and take care of yourself,'" Kozy said.
The Paw Prints' season ended in March after they finished 10th out of 10 teams in the NAIA Northeast Regional in Michigan. As Kozy closes out this chapter of her life as a student-athlete, she has important advice for incoming student-athletes on how to maintain sports and educational success.
"Take care of you. Your mind, your physical health, and your emotional well-being are the most important things. Make time to grab a coffee, watch your favorite show, or read a book. Be true to who you are, never change for anyone, and be kind to yourself -- you are one of a kind," Kozy said.
After graduating this spring, Kozy is planning to attend Arizona State University, where she will work toward a master's degree in applied behavioral analysis. She plans to work as a registered behavior technician, providing therapy support and advocating for autistic children.