Ava Hughes '23 Recruiting Profile

From a young age, I've loved competing in sports because I have an ingrained desire to do my best and to be physically and mentally strong. My parents encouraged me to try any and all types of activities to help me uncover my passion. I played many years of soccer and softball; I dabbled in dance and gymnastics but it was the volleyball court and sport that captured my passion. Making the U12 team helped me build foundational skills and proved that I loved to play in a team sport - somewhere I could contribute my skills to the group to be successful. 

While I have played school and club level volleyball for the last 7 years, I wasn’t always on the ‘A’  side of the game. There were times where I was cut from the top team and had to learn to lead the less competitive team to success. These were hard experiences to live through but in hindsight, I see the value of the adversity I faced. I learned an expanded role beyond being a player. I needed to be a leader. To be positive and motivating. That season, I was named ‘MVP’ of my school team which boosted my confidence to ultimately make the top team in Club volleyball that same year.

I have been a Setter for many years and have been commended on my ‘clean hands’ but since I’ve been able to, I have moved to the defensive side of the game as a Libero because of my quick, court coverage and ability to keep the ball up and playable. 

In the 2022 Club season, our team achieved so much through great rallies, games and tournament successes. We finished 5th in Division 1 in all of Alberta.  In my recent school season, we finished with a remarkable 51-1 season record, winning Regional Zones and were undefeated in our opportunity at the 2A Provincial tournament, bringing home the gold medal to our community and school. We have already started the 2023 Club season and I am feeling excited and determined to continue our streak of success on the court. 

The sport of volleyball has taught me so much beyond the court. I’ve learned to work hard, to face adversity and to not give up if it’s something you love. 

I look forward to continue playing at a high level as a teammate and as a student.