By Chris Parker
Ava volleyball failed to win double-digit matches for the first time since 2017 last season. The Bears will look to get back to their winning ways with an experienced roster returning this season.
“With the large amount of returning players we have, our team chemistry will be our biggest strength this year, as well as a deep defensive roster,” Ava head coach Bailey Loge said. “Our defensive players will have to compete for playing time and I think that will be a great motivator for our girls.”
Senior outside hitter Paris Henry will be one of the team’s key leaders.
“She is a force on the net and a critical piece to our defense,” Loge said. “(Henry is) the most versatile player we have on our team. She has been insanely flexible over the years, filling in roles when needed. She is an amazing, knowledgeable, all-around athlete and is successful in any position. She has gone from setter to middle and sometimes even both at once over the past three years. We can rely on her to perform every single game, no matter the circumstances. She is constantly working hard and willing to make sacrifices for her team.”
Fellow senior Alexis Emrick will also be a major contributor at outside hitter.
“Alexis Emrick will also play a huge role both defensively and offensively this season,” Loge said. “She has an unstoppable serve and is incredibly athletic. Her speed and experience will prepare her to make major plays for our team. She is dedicated to being the best player she can be.”
Junior Braelyn Willis will lead the defense at libero.
“Her quickness and grit will shine in the libero position,” Loge said of Willis.
Sophomores Tessa Dobrovits (middle), Taylor Dry (middle), Claire McDonald (setter) and Abby Fortner (defensive specialist) also return.
“We have higher expectations for these four after getting their first year of varsity under their belt,” Loge said. “Their love for the game and desire to improve will be evident this season compared to last.”
Consistency will be key for Ava this season.
“We will need to perform to our potential consistently to be successful this year,” Loge said. “Momentum swings have been a struggle in past seasons and learning to have more control over that will be beneficial to our team.”
Ava opens the regular season on Sept. 3 at home against Dora.
“The overall expectations of the year include upperclassmen leading our team by example and our underclassmen to gain confidence,” Loge said. “I look for our girls to be more aggressive and play smart on the floor. We have personal goals, but our team goal is to outwork ourselves and to be playing our best volleyball during the postseason.”
