It is no secret that Rally Madison FC officially kicked off their inaugural season in the Women’s United Soccer League — but did you know that an MMSD alum also made her debut with the team?
Elizabeth Arnold, a Madison West High School ’23 alum and former standout member of the soccer team, returned to Madison to play pre-professional soccer.
As Madison welcomes a new era of women's soccer, Arnold reflects on her experiences at Madison West and how her time throughout MMSD helped shape her journey from high school student-athlete to a pre-professional player.
Playing pre-professional soccer in Madison
What does it mean to you to be playing pre-professional soccer back in Madison during the inaugural season for Rally Madison FC?
I’m incredibly excited to be back in Madison for the summer and to help bring high-level women’s soccer to my hometown. Growing up, Madison had so much to offer, but there weren’t many opportunities for young girls to watch high-level women’s sports in person. Being part of Rally Madison FC’s inaugural season means a lot because I hope young girls can see that their dreams are possible and to know they have a community of people ahead of them ready to help pave the way.
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High school influences and development
Thinking back to your time at Madison West, what experiences or people had the biggest impact on your development as both a player and a person?
I loved my time at Madison West and was lucky to have amazing teachers, mentors and coaches throughout those four years. One person who had a huge impact on me was my soccer coach, Sagan Pizzingrilli. She was competitive and passionate about winning, but more importantly, she cared deeply about helping her players grow as people. She pushed me to become a stronger leader and helped prepare me for life beyond soccer.
How did competing for Madison West help prepare you for all the demands and expectations that come with playing at the pre-professional level?
Playing for Madison West was one of the most fun and meaningful parts of my soccer journey. Getting to compete alongside childhood friends and my sister while representing my school was such a unique experience. High school soccer teaches you how to adapt to different playing styles and personalities, and it really challenges you to develop leadership skills both on and off the field.
Growth beyond the soccer field
In what ways did your experience at West help you evolve outside of soccer — specifically as a student, teammate or leader?
West was a special place because it exposed me to so many different perspectives and ways of thinking. Growing up in MMSD helped shape me into someone who is open-minded, adaptable and eager to learn from others. Those experiences gave me the confidence to move across the country to Charleston, South Carolina, while staying grounded in who I am.
Are there any traditions or routines from your high school days that you still carry with you?
One of my favorite traditions from high school soccer was having my sister do my game-day hair. It’s something small, but it always made game days feel special. While we haven’t been able to keep that tradition going during college, I’m really excited that she’ll be doing my hair again this summer.
If you had to pick one, what is your favorite memory as an MMSD student-athlete?
Finally getting the opportunity to play for West after my freshman season was canceled because of COVID. That experience made me appreciate every moment I’ve had competing with my teammates even more.
Reconnecting with Madison and advice for graduates
What has it been like reconnecting with the Madison community and local fans?
It’s always amazing to come back to Madison. The community has such a strong passion for sports, and I know Rally game days are going to bring a lot of energy and excitement. I’m really looking forward to reconnecting with local fans and representing the city again.
It is graduation season and the Class of 2026 is preparing to cross the stage. What advice do you have for students looking to pursue their dreams after graduating from MMSD?
Stay curious, keep learning, and get involved in as many opportunities as possible. You never know where one experience or connection might lead you. Most importantly, believe in yourself, work hard and remember to stay grateful throughout the process.
