News & Features

Share:

Madeline Bosnjak had a few days off last January that gave her time to reflect on the last few years of her life. The 28-year-old became filled with gratitude and appreciation for the American college sports system. It enabled her to get an education and continue playing tennis at a high level.

Madeline Helped Barry University Win Two National Titles
© Barry Athletics

Bosnjak was born and raised in Germany. She played on tour before injuries forced her to abandon her professional career.

“There is no such thing as college sports in Germany so it really broke my heart to be honest. Tennis was something I had done my whole life and I really enjoyed it,” Bosnjak said. “Just because I couldn’t continue to play at the pro level I’d have to cut tennis out of my life and play recreationally. I wanted more.”

Bosnjak was given a lifeline in the United States. Although she was not eligible for NCAA Division I or II because of her pro participation, Bosnjak was able to play at the NAIA level with powerhouse Georgia Gwinnett College.

Bosnjak helped the Grizzlies win two national titles in 2018 and 2019 before graduating with a degree in management information systems. Because of Covid-19, Bosnjak received extra eligibility and transferred to Barry University, where she won two more national titles and earned a masters in finance.

“I am just appreciative that the college sports system still exists in general for foreigners,” she said. “I know there was a period of time where there was a debate if foreigners should be stopped from getting scholarships because they don’t pay for tuition compared to other U.S. citizens with loans and debt. I do understand that point, but I am just so grateful the U.S. is still allowing foreigners and it hasn’t been banned.”