Madison sophomore Jonnie Folsom was a key cog in the Bobcats’ championship wheel
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REXBURG — The Madison High School varsity girls volleyball just finished its third consecutive state championship run. They finished with a 33-2 overall record and undefeated 8-0 conference run.
Sophomore standout Jonnie Folsom, whose powerful play and relentless drive helped the Bobcats solidify their position as Idaho’s top team.
“Jonnie’s one of those hitters that we rely on — she’s our go-to,” said head coach Keanu Pukahi. “We call her ‘steady Eddy’ because she’s always calm, even in high-pressure situations. For someone so young, she’s already someone we can count on, which is huge for us.”
Madison’s season was defined by consistent dominance, with Folsom making crucial contributions in nearly every match.
On Oct. 22, the Bobcats notched their 30th consecutive home win by sweeping Canyon Ridge, 3-0. It was just the latest in a series of strong showings from Folsom, who plays a key role as an outside hitter. Her powerful spikes and dependable defense make her a nightmare for opposing teams.
The Backbone of the Offense
Folsom’s breakout performances have become a cornerstone of the team’s offense. During a late-season stretch of games, including a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Skyview during the recent 5A/6A Volleyball Challenge tournament in Orem, Utah, she carried the team with a series of clutch kills that broke through double blocks and powered the Bobcats to key victories.
“Her shoulder kind of carried us in that tournament,” Pukahi explained. “She was smashing the ball through big blocks, and teams couldn’t stop her one-on-one. It was impressive, especially considering she’s only a sophomore.”
Madison has been tested against tough competition this season, including a showdown with Lone Peak and Bingham at the same Orem tournament. Despite a few setbacks, Folsom’s play has helped the team stay on track for a state title.
Then, during the tournament, it was her block that sealed a semi-finals victory over Skyview — the same team they would beat in the finals to seal their state title.
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Born to Play
Volleyball runs deep in Folsom’s family. Her mother was a collegiate player at Weber State, but her career was cut short when she became pregnant with Jonnie. Now, Jonnie is carrying on the family legacy while carving out her own path to greatness.
“I always say I’ve been playing since the womb,” she joked. “My mom’s love for volleyball definitely inspired me to take up the sport, and it’s been a huge part of my life ever since.”
With college scouts beginning to take notice — Weber State among them — Folsom’s future appears as bright as her present. For now though, her focus remains squarely on Madison and making a run at a fourth-straight state crown.
Business — finished and unfinished
As the Bobcats prepared for what would be a successful, the team’s aspirations were clear: win state. With Folsom leading the charge, Madison made their intentions a reality
“My goal is to win state and keep improving every day,” Folsom said before the state tournament. “I want to play my best and contribute as much as I can.”
Pukahi is equally focused on broader goals for his athletes, emphasizing growth on and off the court.
“Winning a state championship is a big goal, but it’s also about preparing these girls for college and beyond,” he said. “Sports teach life lessons, and I want them to come away from this experience not just as better players, but as better people.”
