Ava Marie Smith Ava Marie Smith 5'9" | OH/RS Rodriguezschoo | 2028 CA describes her game through steadiness, calm focus, and volleyball IQ, qualities that consistently translate at higher levels. She is currently refining her approach to maximize shot placement, aiming to become a more dynamic and efficient attacker rather than relying on power alone. Her goals this season are team-first, becoming the best all-around player she can be to support those around her while continuing to grow personally and athletically. Off the court, Ava has been learning French since age eight and dreams of traveling or living abroad in France, a detail that reflects curiosity, commitment, and long-term thinking.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ava Marie Smith Ava Marie Smith 5'9" | OH/RS Rodriguezschoo | 2028 CA felt confident in her overall performance at the NorCal Winter Classic, particularly as it marked just her second tournament of the season. She was proud of her ability to hit specific spots while serving and attacking, combining strategic shot selection with power. Defensively, she covered tips consistently, including her own blocks, and stayed engaged on every play. Coming out of the weekend, Ava is focusing on improving her blocking positioning and communicating earlier as plays develop. Off the court, she brings the same curiosity and discipline to her academics, currently pursuing her passion for learning French and celebrating the milestone of reading a French novel.

Ava will compete next at Power League 1 on February 7.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ava Marie Smith Ava Marie Smith 5'9" | OH/RS Rodriguezschoo | 2028 CA leads by example. As an outside and middle for Rodriguez High School, she brings a steady presence to the court with her calm focus and high-level execution. She isn’t the loudest voice in the gym, but her intensity speaks volumes. Ava leads with her play, staying composed, communicating what she sees, and lifting her teammates with encouragement and clarity. In high-pressure moments, she simplifies the game by focusing on the basics, using her composure to stay grounded while others around her may start to feel the weight of the moment. Her ability to read hitters and adjust in real time makes her a valuable contributor on both sides of the ball.

This season, Ava has zeroed in on refining her passing and improving her defensive reads. She’s also been focused on developing her hitting IQ, learning how to recognize the block and adjust her shots to find openings. Coaches and teammates would describe her as positive, witty, and reliable, a confident athlete with a lighthearted personality that helps create a balanced team environment. And while her game is sharp, her volleyball roots are playful. She learned the game on a trampoline at age four, smashing balls at her mom for hours. That early joy still shows in how she plays today, with focus, energy, and a quiet confidence that never wavers. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ava Marie Smith Ava Marie Smith 5'9" | OH/RS Rodriguezschoo | 2028 CA Named Top Performer at PrepDig Stock Up Showcase