Alexis Middleton has volunteered with Madison Starlings for three years, starting as a team coach and now running the entire coaching program. Madison Starlings has provided free or reduced cost quality volleyball coaching and experiences to over 2,500 girls.

With her record-breaking college athletic career and her obvious coaching skills, Alexis could easily secure paid coaching positions, but she continues to volunteer with the Starlings, supporting her girls to become leaders through the high ideals of the program and her inclusive coaching style. Her practices have been described as having an atmosphere of respect, celebration and joy.

She led fundraising efforts and managed the logistics of getting her team to their first Starlings National Tournament in San Diego this summer — a life-changing experience for the 17 girls who participated that is rippling outward as the girls become role models for younger players. All this positive team building happens at Warner Park Community Recreation Center and in other neighborhoods around the city, thanks to the spirit of Alexis.