Lake Region varsity girls’ tennis Coach Jenny Dunn selected Ava Smith as the Athletic Boosters Club and Hancock Lumber Player of the Week because “Ava has shown up, worked hard, and has improved every practice and match.”

Ava recently powered through a difficult three-set match where she came from behind and won vs a tough Freeport opponent. 

“This was a long and tough battle both mentally and physically, but Ava showed her strength and came through!” Coach Dunn said. “Ava’s match helped the entire team win their best and toughest match of the season!” 

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Ava is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player Profile

Athlete: Ava Smith

Year in School: Junior

Hometown: Casco

Parent: Megan Smith

Sports you Play: Tennis, Basketball, and Volleyball

School organizations: Math Team, Interact, Project Planet

School honors: Science

Q. Why did you choose tennis? I chose this sport because I knew I looked good in a tennis skirt so I decided to give it a shot to try new things. After the first practice, I realized how fun this sport was and I am so glad I gave it a try. I am already excited for the next season.

Q. Complete the following, “I know I’ve had a good match if…” I know I’ve had a good match if I win, if I am being completely honest. No one is exactly enthused about losing. However, if I have improved since my last match, I am able to take that as a small victory to try and keep myself from getting too negative. 

Q. What goes through your mind before a big match? I try to calm myself down as it is not helpful to be pent up with anxiety before any type of competition. I can’t say that there is anything specific that goes through my mind other than remembering the things I am trying to work on so I can try to improve individually.

Q. If things are not going well, what do you do to rebound and clear your mind to be more positive? I try to focus on the good things and remember that no one is perfect all the time. It also helps that I have such an amazing support system behind me. I can count on my teammates, coaches and family to pick me up and remind me that even though it may not feel the best that it is not the end of the world.

Q. How has sports changed you as a person? Sports have helped me build a strong work ethic, and has taught me how to be a part of a team, which will follow me into college as well as the rest of my life. 

Q. What is the biggest reward you get from competing in sports? The relationships I have built with my teammates has been the biggest reward from sports. I love how many friendships I have been able to form throughout the years. Sports take up a big part of my life and it makes it a lot easier and more fun knowing that I have teammates that double as friends.