Defense has become one of the most reliable parts of Ava Saffell’s game.

Throughout the camp she found herself making plays she may not have reached earlier in the season, a reflection of the work she has invested into improving her range and court awareness.

One of her favorite moments came during a serve receive drill where she felt completely locked in. The ball was coming off her platform cleanly, communication was flowing, and everything seemed to click at once.

What stayed with her most, however, had little to do with passing technique.

Several college coaches emphasized the importance of body language and positivity, especially during difficult moments. For a libero, that message carries weight. The position often requires athletes to steady the court when things are not going smoothly.

Ava appears to understand that leadership is not always about being the loudest person in the gym. Sometimes it is about the energy you bring to the people around you.

With Nationals, beach season, and more training still ahead, she continues to build her game.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ava Saffell was one of the more reliable serve receive athletes in attendance. She consistently moved her feet into position and worked to create quality first contact. Her platform discipline allowed setters to operate with more options throughout drills.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ava Saffell Ava Saffell 5'7" | DS/L Mira Costa | 2028 State CA demonstrated expanding range in serve receive, stepping into more court responsibility and stabilizing first contact against aggressive serving pressure. By taking up additional space, she allowed her attackers to load earlier and operate with cleaner rhythm. Her presence in the back row translated into trust, particularly in transition sequences where defensive control kept rallies extended.

Her development focus now centers on out-of-system setting from zone one. After recognizing how ball trajectory affected her opposite’s approach window, she began redirecting those emergency contacts to the outside or back-row option to create a more hittable tempo. Off the court, Saffell competes in surfing and participates in the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation’s ocean therapy initiatives while also earning Honor Roll recognition at Mira Costa High School.

Ava Saffell Ava Saffell 5'7" | DS/L Mira Costa | 2028 State CA will compete next at the 17U Event #3 on March 1.
~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ava Saffell Ava Saffell 5'7" | DS/L Mira Costa | 2028 State CA is eager to showcase her strengths in serve receive and defensive reads, along with her ability to keep rallies alive and extend plays. Her focus heading into this tournament is on maintaining a high passing percentage, communicating effectively with her teammates, and bringing consistency to the backcourt. She also aims to bring big energy to every point.

In preparation, Ava has been sharpening her footwork with targeted agility drills and prioritizing recovery through proper nutrition and hydration. Mentally, she’s been visualizing game scenarios to build confidence and remain composed under pressure.

What sets Ava apart is her energy, relentless hustle, and unwavering positivity both on and off the court. She’s determined to show college coaches that she’s a reliable, impactful player, especially in high-pressure moments where composure and consistency matter most. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247