2026 Softball Roster
Roster

Madi Hays
- Class:
- Junior
- Height:
- 5-4
- B/T:
- R/R
- Hometown:
- Bellevue, Neb.
- High School:
- Millard South High School
When did you start playing softball?
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I started playing softball when I was 9 years old, and from the very beginning, I fell in love with the game. As I played more, I realized how much the sport meant to me, and I pushed myself to improve. I played 12U for four years as a 9 year old constantly working to refine my skills and build my confidence. By the time I was 12, I moved up to play 14U, embracing the challenge of competing with older, more experienced players. I always strived to play at the highest level possible, so as a 14-year-old, I played up with 16U and even 18U teams. When I finally transitioned to 16U, I pushed myself further by competing at the 18U level. These experiences not only sharpened my skills but also strengthened my determination and passion for the game, driving me to always aim higher.
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One of my favorite softball memories was breaking several records at my high school that had stood for over 30 years. It was an incredible feeling to see my hard work and dedication pay off in such a significant way. What made it even more special was learning that I also held the number one batting average in the state of Nebraska. Knowing I had achieved something so meaningful, not just for my school but on a state level, was a moment I’ll never forget. It reinforced my love for the game and my drive to keep striving for excellence both on and off the field.
- I chose the University of Kansas because it felt like the perfect fit for both my academic and athletic goals. KU offers a strong nursing program that aligns with my passion for helping others and my dream of working in the medical field. The supportive environment, school spirit, and opportunity to play softball at a competitive level made it stand out. From the moment I visited campus, I knew this was where I belonged—a place where I could grow, challenge myself, and be part of a community that inspires success
Single-Game Career Highs
- At-bats: 4 | 5 times, last vs. Southern Florida (5/3/24)
- Hits: 2 | 4 times, last vs. Southern Florida (5/3/24)
- Doubles: 1 | 5 times, last vs. Southern Florida (5/3/24)
- Home runs: 1 | 4 times, at UIW (4/23/25)
- Total bases: 5 | 2 times, last vs. Lamar University (3/26/24)
- Stolen Bases: 2 | 2 times, last at UIW (4/23/25)
- RBI: 2 | vs. North Texas (3/15/24)
- Runs: 2 | 2 times, last vs. Memphis (3/20/24)
- Walks: 2 | vs. Abilene Christian (3/5/24)
- Putouts: 5 | vs. Southern Florida (5/4/24)
- Assists: 1 | 8 times, last vs. Kansas City (4/23/25)
Sophomore (2025)
Appeared in 34 games … Served as a key contributor for Kansas as a pinch runner, leading the team with 10 stolen bases — a career high … Offensively, recorded two hits, including a double and an RBI, all against East Texas A&M … Finished the season with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage.
Freshman (2024)
Before coming to Kansas, Hays played her freshman season at UTSA, where she made history as the first player in program history to earn 2023-2024 Easton/NFCA All-American Scholar-Athlete honors
High School
Hays has earned All-State Honorable Mention and All-Metro honors as a freshman (2019)...Ranked #70 overall in the Extra Innings Elite 100 for the 2023 class, named to the Extra Innings All-Summer Roster (2020).... In her Junior season named to all NFCA All-Region outfielder, Class A First Team All-State, Second Team Super State, First Team All-Metro, and All-Metro Academic Team...earned BWHS Offensive Player of the Year... broke multiple records in both her junior and senior seasons, setting career marks in home runs (21), batting average (.581), OBP (.662), and total bases (170). She holds the Nebraska Class A career batting average record (.581) and ranks sixth all-time in state history
Personal
Has two older brothers...is pursuing a career in nursing, aspiring to become either a Nurse Practitioner in the NICU or an Anesthesiologist Assistant