Madelyn “Maddy” Souza’s journey from a standout student-athlete at Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS) to a full-fledged firefighter and EMT with the Gallatin Fire Department in Tennessee is a testament to grit, determination, and the power of community. A 2021 graduate of PVHS, Maddy reflects on her multifaceted high school years, the strong foundation they gave her, and the path she has since carved out for herself.
For Maddy, PVHS wasn’t just a school; it was a launchpad for lifelong friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. High school basketball was a defining aspect of her journey, and she cherishes every memory from her time on the court. “The basketball program at Pahrump Valley High School was the greatest gift I received growing up,” she shared. Maddy fondly recalls early mornings waking up at 4:30 a.m. for open gym, spending off-seasons training with teammates like Makayla Gent and Kate Daffer in Mr. Burtenshaws’ backyard, and playing pickup games well into the evening. Moments like Tayla Wombaker’s game-winning three-pointer and the celebratory dog pile that followed remain etched in her mind.
The dedication of the coaching staff and the hardworking, like-minded teammates who shared her passion for the game left an indelible mark on Maddy. “The relationships I built with my coaches are something I will cherish forever,” she said. Coach Bob Hopkins, in particular, played a pivotal role in her development, instilling values of hard work and perseverance that she carries to this day.
Maddy’s high school achievements extended beyond the basketball court. As a dual-sport athlete, she also excelled in soccer, leading both teams to state tournaments. Her ability to balance athletics and academics was equally impressive—she graduated with a 4.0 GPA, serving as a role model for younger students. “Being an athlete that underclassmen could look up to was something I took pride in,” she said.
One of the most significant lessons Maddy learned during high school was the importance of holding loved ones close. Growing up in a small town allowed her to build friendships that have stood the test of time. “My closest friends to this day are the ones I walked the halls with since the age of five,” she said.
Her time at PVHS also laid the groundwork for her career. A pivotal moment came during her freshman year when her mother, Lene, encouraged her to explore future career options. Soccer was a driving force in Maddy’s life, and her mother’s suggestion that she wouldn’t be allowed to play unless she mapped out a career path lit a fire within her. After researching careers that aligned with her interests in fitness, teamwork, and leadership, Maddy discovered her passion for firefighting.
She joined the Pahrump Valley Fire Department as an explorer, where she got her first taste of firehouse culture. From shared meals and workout sessions to witnessing her first residential structure fire, Maddy fell in love with the profession. “Seeing the crew fired up with adrenaline, the camaraderie amongst the team, and the way operations unfolded on the fireground sparked my true love for this field,” she said.
After graduating from PVHS, Maddy pursued her dream of becoming a firefighter while continuing her athletic career. She enrolled at Casper College in Casper, Wyoming, where she played collegiate soccer and worked toward her Fire Science degree. Balancing the demands of sports and academics with her newfound passion for firefighting wasn’t easy, but Maddy thrived under pressure.
During the summer before her sophomore year, she became a seasonal wildland firefighter for Campbell County Fire Department (CCFD) in Gillette, Wyoming. By her sophomore year, she had secured a full-time firefighter position with CCFD. Though the decision to step away from soccer and graduate early was difficult, it allowed Maddy to focus entirely on her firefighting career. “It wasn’t easy hanging up my cleats,” she admitted, “but becoming a firefighter was my dream, and I wanted to give it my all.”
Today, Maddy serves as a firefighter and EMT with the Gallatin Fire Department in Tennessee. Her days are spent training, running calls, and honing her skills, and she couldn’t be happier in her chosen profession. “It sounds cliché, but being a firefighter is truly the best job in the world,” she said. “If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life, and firefighters are living proof of this.”
Maddy’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. As a young woman in a male-dominated field, she has faced physical and societal obstacles. “Certain tasks are undoubtedly more difficult for me because of science,” she explained. “But having an optimistic and hard-working mentality fills in the biological gaps.” Her determination to overcome these challenges is rooted in the belief that there are “a thousand ways to skin a cat”—a mindset she applies to every problem she faces.
Throughout her career, Maddy has been fortunate to have the support of family, friends, and mentors. Her mother, stepdad Mike, sister Halie, and boyfriend Edson Roundy have been her unwavering cheerleaders. Professionally, mentors like Xavi Soto, Chief Lewis, and Tyrell Gill have guided her development, and her colleagues at Gallatin Fire inspire her to improve daily.
Despite her demanding career, Maddy stays deeply connected to her roots in Pahrump. Whenever she visits, she makes time to reconnect with old friends, visit her parents, and spend time at PVHS. One of her favorite activities is helping Coach Hopkins and the girls’ basketball team during practices—a way to give back to the program that meant so much to her.
Outside of work, Maddy’s life is filled with love and adventure. She lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee, with her high school sweetheart, Edson, and their rescue dog. The couple enjoys running, kayaking, woodworking, and spending time with family. Maddy also serves as an assistant coach for Beech High School’s soccer team, hoping to impact young athletes the same way her coaches influenced her.
Looking ahead, Maddy has several exciting projects on the horizon. She’s training for her first triathlon, a lifelong goal she will accomplish in June 2025, and preparing for her first Hyrox competition with her childhood best friend, Makayla Gent. On the home front, she and Edson are tackling numerous DIY projects, thanks to Edson’s knack for building just about anything.
Maddy’s ultimate goal, however, is to start a family with Edson. “He’s the most caring, selfless, kind-hearted man there is,” she said, her excitement evident. “I can’t wait to have a family with him.”
Maddy’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to chasing her dreams. From the basketball court at PVHS to the firehouses of Wyoming and Tennessee, she has continually pushed herself to new heights, inspiring others along the way. Her journey is proof that with hard work, humility, and the support of a loving community, anything is possible.
