East County Athlete of the Week: Ava Collins

Ava Collins is a junior outside hitter for the Lakewood Ranch girls varsity volleyball team. This past season, Collins guided the Mustangs to a 15-9 record, leading the team in kills, serving aces and serving points.

When did you start playing volleyball and why?

I started playing volleyball in the sixth grade. I started on a local team — my best friend, Hayden Zimmerman, who I still play with on Lakewood Ranch now, introduced me to the sport. 

What’s the appeal?

The teamwork. I played softball before I started volleyball and although I was on a team, it felt like more of an individual sport. Having to use your team to play the game is what I like most about volleyball.

What's your best skill on the court?

Hitting. From coach to coach I’ve learned new skills and new ways to work the ball. In high school I’ve learned new ways to read the ball and anticipate where it’s going to go. 

What are you working on to improve?

My endurance. Since I move all around the court during the game, I need to have the stamina be able to pass as well. I’m also working on staying aggressive, whether I’m in the front row or back row and keeping my lower level skills, like passing, sharp.

What’s your favorite volleyball memory?

It was my third or fourth year playing travel volleyball and our team (EVO) had just won the New Year’s Classic tournament. It was my first year with a new team and we’d already built such good chemistry that winning that last game after playing the whole weekend was just the greatest feeling. It kicked off a three or four tournament win streak for us, too.

What went right for Lakewood Ranch this year?

Just working together and not getting on each other. We did a good job of letting everything else go when we stepped on the court. As soon as we walked into practice or got ready for a game, it felt like every relationship we had was well-developed and strong. We knew that it didn’t matter what we had going on off the court, we just had to work together during the game to be successful. 

What’s your favorite food?

Lobster and pickles. Not together though, obviously. 

What’s your favorite movie or television show?

My favorite television show is “Gilmore Girls.” As far as a movie, probably “Grease”

What’s your favorite school subject?

English. My mom is a big writer and my great-uncle was an author, so it kind of runs in the family, but reading and writing has always been something that I enjoy.

What are your hobbies?

I like spending quality time with people, no matter where we are. I like going to the beach and having my friends over at my house.

What's the best advice that you've received?

My coach Jess (Leupould) at Lakewood Ranch taught me to just know that you can get as close as you can to perfect, but that you’re never going to reach it. So don’t be as hard on yourself as you are.

Finish this sentence. Ava Collins is…

Dedicated.