Andrew Macchiavello, Aidan Payne, and Elaisa Villar have been recognized as the January 2026 recipients of the Heart of the Pack award by the NC State Department of Athletics.
According to the Pack Performance group, Macchiavello was noted for his academic progress in the fall semester, making the Dean’s list. He has also secured an internship with Raleigh Police Department for the summer and is described as having grown into a confident leader on his team. “Andrew had his best semester academically in the Fall and made the Dean’s list. This achievement represents steady and consistent improvement. He has done a good job utilizing his resources and has embraced all aspects of his experience, having worked with the academic staff to secure an internship with Raleigh PD this summer. Andrew has grown tremendously during his time at NC State and has transitioned from an uncertain freshman living in the shadow of his brother’s national championship career, and has emerged as a confident and mindful leader within his team,” stated Pack Performance.
Payne was highlighted for his dependability, character, and academic excellence. He graduated in December with a perfect GPA and began a Master’s program in Accounting this spring. The statement read: “Aidan is a great candidate for the Heart of the Pack. He is dependable and respected by his teammates. He has great character and integrity and is an excellent student. Not only has he played a significant role within the soccer program, he graduated in December with a 4.0 GPA and recently started a Master’s in Accounting program this spring. In addition to all those qualities, he’s highly motivated, works extremely hard, and represents the Pack well on and off the pitch.”
Villar was commended for her leadership within volleyball, her work ethic across different areas including training and academics, as well as her positive influence on teammates. “Elaisa has really embraced her role as a leader and difference maker. As a player, she has a strong presence, is vocal, encouraging, and dependable. Her impeccable work ethic makes her a positive force in all aspects of the program – in the weight room, in the classroom, on the court. Her voice and impact within the volleyball program speaks volumes. As a teammate, her positive attitude and perspective is contagious and elevates others,” according to Pack Performance.
The Heart of the Pack award honors student-athletes who meet criteria based on teamwork, effort, attitude, and mindfulness. Each month athletes from every sport are evaluated by Pack Performance—a team that includes professionals from strength training, academics, sports medicine, mental health services, nutritionists, as well as those involved in student-athlete engagement.
Modern Woodmen of America sponsors this award. The organization provides life insurance protection since its founding in 1883 with an emphasis on supporting financial security for families while fostering community involvement.
