In the small town of Little Falls, Minnesota, a remarkable athlete named Maiya Poppen is carving out her path as a multi-sport standout. As a member of the Class of 2028, this exceptional young woman is making waves in three sports: softball, volleyball, and Olympic weightlifting. With a fierce determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Maiya embodies the qualities of a true student-athlete.
Early Beginnings and Athletic Versatility
At just 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 130 pounds, Maiya has a blend of speed, agility, and mental acuity that has set her apart on the field and court. Growing up in Little Falls, she has developed a passion for sports from a young age, participating in various athletic activities that showcase her diverse skill set. Each sport has contributed to her overall athletic development, emphasizing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
Softball: A Primary Passion
Maiya...s primary love lies in softball, where she excels as a catcher and shortstop. Her journey through the sport has been marked by notable achievements and a commitment to continuous improvement. In 2025, she is looking forward to competing with several esteemed teams, including the Brainerd MN Winter Dome Ball (Travel), the Little Falls Community Schools (as a Varsity/Freshman Catcher), the 14U Big West Flyers Travel Team, and the 18U Legion Softball.
Her skills behind the plate have already begun to shine through, as evidenced by her remarkable performance as a freshman starting catcher on her varsity team. Maiya...s dedication to the game is reflected in her impressive batting average of .350, which speaks to her effectiveness at the plate. A standout moment during her career includes hitting a walk-off home run that advanced her team in the 14U Minnesota State Qualifier, a thrilling occasion that solidified her reputation as a clutch performer.
Coaches and teammates alike commend her high game IQ, quick release, and strong presence behind the plate. These attributes are not easily taught; they are cultivated through a relentless work ethic and a willingness to learn from each experience. Maiya's commitment to attending softball camps, including those at the University of Minnesota Duluth, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, and the College of Saint Benedict's, showcases her desire to broaden her skill set and gain exposure to various coaching philosophies.
Dominance in Volleyball
In addition to her prowess in softball, Maiya has also made her mark as a volleyball player. Playing as both an outside and right-side hitter, she has developed a reputation for her hustle, energy, and strong net presence. Recognized with the Volleyball Leadership Player Award, Maiya has embraced her role as a leader, motivating those around her while demonstrating commitment to teamwork. Her experiences on the volleyball court translate well to her performance on the softball diamond, showcasing her ability to adapt and succeed across different sports.
Olympic Weightlifting: A Unique Challenge
Maiya...s athletic talents extend beyond traditional team sports; she is also carving a niche for herself in Olympic weightlifting. Competing in the 59 kg weight class, she has already made a name for herself by securing a third-place finish at the 2025 Minnesota State Olympic Weightlifting Championship. This unique aspect of her athletic profile speaks to her dedication to physical strength and technique. The rigorous training and concentration required for Olympic weightlifting complement her other sports, building her overall athleticism.
Academic and Personal Excellence
Success in athletics is only part of Maiya...s journey; she also excels academically. With a GPA of 3.5, she embodies the spirit of a dedicated student-athlete, showcasing her commitment to maintaining a balance between her academic responsibilities and sports. Maiya acknowledges that growth comes not just from physical training, but also from mental preparation, striving to improve through coaching, film study, and repetition.
She possesses a strong decision-making ability...a critical trait for any athlete. Her mindset is focused on thriving under competition and embracing feedback. Mental toughness, physical fitness, and maintaining a life balance are crucial components of her overall approach, preparing her for the rigors of collegiate athletics and beyond.
Future Aspirations: A Vision for Growth
Looking ahead, Maiya dreams of competing as a collegiate student-athlete while continuing to develop her skills as a catcher and shortstop. She aims to build a consistent, healthy, and high-performing routine that harmonizes her academic and athletic pursuits. College is a critical transition, and Maiya has set her sights on pursuing a degree in Business Management and Consulting while competing at the Division 1 and 2 levels. She has her eye on institutions across Nebraska, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, and throughout the Midwest, indicating her ambition to find the right fit for both her educational and athletic aspirations.
Maiya has a clear understanding of how her experiences behind the plate have shaped her into the individual she is today. Catching, in particular, has provided her with a unique lens, teaching her valuable lessons about composure, confidence, and community. Softball, she believes, plays an integral role in her personal growth...fostering connections with teammates and instilling teamwork and resilience.
The Road Ahead
In conclusion, Maiya Poppen stands as an aspiring athlete ready to make her mark in the realms of softball, volleyball, and Olympic weightlifting. With a solid foundation built on hard work, a positive mindset, and unwavering determination, she is poised for a bright future. Maiya embodies the essence of a student-athlete, demonstrating that success in sports is intertwined with growth as an individual. As she continues her athletic journey, it...s clear that her passion for sports and commitment to personal development will drive her forward, inspiring both her peers and the generations to come. Whether she...s behind home plate, on the volleyball court, or lifting weights, Maiya Poppen is just getting started, and her story is one to watch as she moves down this promising path.
