When Ava Stewart needs an escape from reality she turns to volleyball. The time she spends on
the court is her chance to focus her energy on the game, leaving all her troubles and stress
behind.
Ava is a junior at Piedmont High School. She values the lessons learned by playing the game.
“Volleyball has taught me to be resilient. In both volleyball and life, there are many challenges
thrown at me all the time and I have learned to take that and use them to my full potential,” she
said.
The best part of being on a team is the bond formed with teammates. As a student-athlete
representing PHS, Ava has built friendships on and off the court. Ava says Lydia Steckel is her
teammate who left a big impression. “She taught me to always be confident in myself.”
This confidence follows her onto the court. Another person who helped Ava build confidence is
her sister. She taught Ava to stop worrying about what other people think of her. What is most
important, she says, is to always be yourself.
“Look at the positives in life and not so much the negatives,” is the best advice says Ava.
Her aunt, uncle, and cousins introduced her to the game when she was eight. Ava has since made
many achievements playing volleyball. The achievement that stands out as her favorite is placing
third at USA Volleyball nationals in 2022.
“I just want to say, thank you, to Heath Kufahl for being the best coach and best mentor I have
ever had. You’ve taught me so much, not only about volleyball but about life, and bringing me
closer to God. Love you!” exclaimed Ava.
Her favorite teacher was Mrs. Stone, her kindergarten teacher. She was always caring and like a
second mom to Ava. An athlete she admires is Texas Longhorns volleyball player Madison
Skinnier. “She has gone through a lot with volleyball and burnout, and she has come back
stronger than ever,” said Ava.
Volleyball is the school activity she focuses on, but Ava has other interests. “I like babysitting
kids at clubhouse at my school and I love to read,” she said.