Teammates to Roommates: Horne Opens Home to Viola

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- As spring sports were canceled and classes moved to an online format amid COVID-19 safety measures, many student-athletes were uprooted. Madelyn Horne was able to pack up her dorm and head to her parents' house in Georgia but for some it isn't quite as simple.

Auriane Viola traveled to Louisville from Schiltigheim, France in August to compete for the Cards in the pole vault. During her first semester and a half as a freshman she built a friendship with Horne. She even joined the thrower's family for Thanksgiving break when the team had a few days off so when she was faced with the decision to leave campus, going home with Horne seemed natural.

"I wanted to ensure that Auriane had a place to stay during this time of need where she felt comfortable," said Horne. "Also, I forced her in my car."

The Horne household provides a family environment for Viola while she's unable to make it home to France.

"I FaceTime my family almost every day," said Viola. "It's pretty bad there. They can barely get out of the house but I feel like people take it more seriously than here. It was more safe for me to stay in the states. I went home with Maddie over Thanksgiving so I knew where I was going and it made my parents feel better too. Even if I actually wanted to go home, there was the U.S. flight ban on Europe so I'm stuck with Maddie I guess."

Outdoor season was quickly approaching but was halted as the ACC canceled spring sport activities through the 2019-20 academic year. Horne competed in two indoor meets in the weight throw and was ready to turn her attention to her main event, discus, during outdoor season. Viola made an immediate impact for the Cards as she picked up three points at the ACC Indoor Championship and cleared a personal best of 4.15m at the Tyson Invitational in the pole vault.

"I'm very disappointed because I was really excited to jump outdoors and try to PR again," said Viola.

Although they are unable to compete again this season, they are looking forward to their sophomore year in The Ville. For now, the two are adjusting to their new normal. They do their classwork together and keep up with workouts the coaches sent them.

According to Horne there has not been a dull moment in the household. In their newfound free time the pair enjoys making Tik Toks although they admit they miss spending time with the rest of their friends and teammates.

"The energy in the house is very chaotic. Between my mom, my brother, and both me and Auriane my dad struggles to find peace and quiet," said Horne.

"I would like to know if there is an off button on Maddie, please," said Viola.

Players Mentioned

Maddie Horne

Auriane Viola

University of Louisville Athletics