2025 Fall Preview: Ava Volleyball

Ava volleyball has a new head coach in Brandy Harvill this season. She has been in the coaching world for 20 years, most of them at Ava, including eight years as an assistant coach in the mid-2000’s.

“The program was looking for a head coach, and I feel I can help establish a strong foundation for the program to build upon in the future,” Harvill said.

She will focus on the mental aspect of the game early in her tenure.

“We will really work hard on the mindset part of volleyball to establish a new culture,” Harvill said.

A group of players including Tessa Dobrovits (junior middle), Abby Fortner (junior DS), Rilee Croston (senior OH), MaKenna Coonts (senior) and Claire McDonald (junior setter) will be key for Ava volleyball this season.

Harvill on Dobrovits: “She’s a very solid middle from last year’s varsity team. Her sophomore season was cut short due to an injury, but she returns even stronger than last season. She has great knowledge of the game and will look to expand as an all-around player this year.”

Harvill on Fortner: “Abby brings a lot of volleyball experience to the floor for us and will lead our defensive presence on the floor.”

Harvill on Croston: “Rilee is a consistent all-around player that will step up this season as a leader.”

Harvill on Coonts: “MaKenna Coonts joins us this season for the first time in high school. MaKenna will bring a strong work ethic and grit to our team. She has been the varsity catcher for two years with a final four appearance last season.”

Harvill on McDonald: “Claire returns to the setting position. She brings experience and great leadership to the team and will be tasked with running the team offense.”

Samantha Hampton (junior middle) and Mae Henry (sophomore outside hitter) will also have a varsity impact.

Taylor Sims (junior setter), Greta Honeycutt (sophomore hitter) and Marissa Shebiel (freshman setter) will be battling for playing time.

“They are a great group of girls that get along very well and are all in as a team,” Harvill said. “We are focusing on improving our mindset to establish the culture we want at Ava High School.”

Ava opens the regular season on Sept. 2 at Dora.

“We are looking for growth as individuals and as a team,” Harvill said. “Once the girls start believing they can, I think their overall play will improve which will increase their competitiveness and hopefully turn their season in the right direction.”