Ava

Connect

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

For Ava, flag football has never been just a game, it’s family. For four seasons, she’s led from the QB1 position, earning 4 straight MVPs and 2 championships. But what she loves most isn’t the rings or the spotlight.. It’s the teammates beside her. They give her confidence and make every game special. To Ava, they’re her safe place and her whole world. 💙🏈

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Bella Salais is the person who inspires Ava most. A freshman QB1 at Ferrum College in Virginia, Bella is more than a role model.. she’s someone who makes Ava feel confident and comfortable on the field. Her energy, joy and love for the game shine both on and off the field. Bella constantly encourages Ava to dream bigger and do great things, often telling her, “You remind me of my younger self.” To Ava, that means everything.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

My proudest moment of Ava came when everything was on the line. In a playoff game that went to triple overtime, she delivered three back-to-back clutch touchdown passes to secure the victory and send her team to the championship game. She didn't just rise to the moment, she owned it!! Then she finished what she started, leading her team to an undefeated championship season. At 10 years old, Ava showed the heart and poise of a true champion.