Photo Credit: IFH Photography
VYPE: What grade are you in, and what sports do you play?
Ava: I am a sophomore at Duncan High School. I play volleyball, and I have also played soccer.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
Ava: A teammate who has inspired me the most is Maren Turkett. In 8th grade, she tore her ACL right before sports and had to sit out a whole year, and is now playing varsity her sophomore year as well. She put in a lot of time and effort into recovery. She would go to every single practice and every single game, even though she could not play. She cheered everyone on, and I know it was hard for her. I am so proud of her, and I know she’ll go far.
VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade and why?
Ava: My favorite teacher was Ashton Hall in 6th grade. She doesn’t teach in Duncan anymore, but her impact still remains. She always checked on me and taught me many things, not just school-related. She would always pick me up when i was down and treated me with the most respect I’ve ever gotten from a teacher.
VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.
Ava: I want to shout out my volleyball coach, Kathryn Jeffords. She has taught me pretty much everything I know about volleyball. She has worked with me for hours on end. Every time I have asked her to stay after practice for extra touches or how to fix something when I mess up she has been more than happy to help. She has led me to be the player I am today. She deserves the credit for me being the player I am.
VYPE: What has your sport taught you that makes you a better person?
Ava: You have to work hard to earn things, and setbacks are not the end of the story, just a bump in the road. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but showing up and putting in effort will guide you there.
VYPE: What is your favorite part about representing your high school as an athlete?
Ava: My favorite part of representing Duncan High School is my teammates. I love the bond we have and how we pick each other up when things get tough. All of them motivate me to be better and try my hardest for them. They all worked so hard this summer, and I am so proud of every single one of them.
VYPE: What is the best advice that anyone has given you?
Ava: The best advice I have received is from my dad. He told me if I am ever lost, just turn to God and he’ll be right there waiting for me.
VYPE: Are you involved in any other activities?
Ava: I am involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the National Honor Society.
VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation. Where do you go and who do you take with you?
Ava: I would want to go to the Bahamas with my friend Lia Avelar, who lives in Florida.
