Star Student’s Athlete: Buford's Ava Overcame Obstacles

BUFORD, GA — We all know student athletes who also bring their A-game to other parts of their lives.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know the individual stories behind the leaderboard.

This submission comes from Amanda Woolery, who nominated Ava of Buford.

Star student athlete’s name

Ava

Star student athlete’s home state

Georgia

Star student athlete’s Patch town

Buford

How do you know the star student athlete?

Daughter

What sport does the star student athlete play?

Olympic Style Weightlifting

Why do you believe the star student athlete should be recognized?

Ava has overcome several obstacles over the past year. Ava had wrist surgery in August 2021. Then, she got a concussion (her second one) in November 2021 while playing basketball. She was unable to participate/practice in weightlifting until after January. Some depression set in. With counseling and being cleared to return to sports, Ava overcame the depression and got back to work. She works out at her local gym with her coach six days a week. She has competed in a tough weight class this year and even won first place in one of the competitions. Her goal is to continue to get stronger and make it to Nationals in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 2023. Ava plans to attend college on a weightlifting scholarship. Ava has raised money and donated for the past 10 years to the American Cancer Society in memory of her grandfather. Ava is also a great student. She maintains an A/B average.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star student athlete?

Ava is a beautiful and strong young lady with an even bigger heart.

Keep up the great work, Ava!

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Know an outstanding student athlete? Nominate them as a Patch Star Student Athlete.