Athlete Spotlight: Avery Price #6

SPORTS: Softball, Volleyball, Basketball, Track

Tell us your story. What life experiences have impacted your journey? What motivates you? What is your “why"?

My grandmother suffered a stroke a few years ago and I have seen the struggles that it can cause in ones life. It has prevented her from doing a lot of activities in life that she has always enjoyed. This taught me a very valuable lesson that life can change rapidly and we must always be thankful for each and every day. My "why" is playing with purpose and honoring those that love and support me by making the most of every opportunity I have.

What role does your faith play in your life and in your sports career?

As a Christian, I always give the glory to God for my talents and my accomplishments. It's in his name that I have the talents in which I do. I lean on faith in pressure situations and adversity. I have been blessed with the talent and honor the Lord in all that I do!

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? If so, which one and why?

My favorite bible verse is from Proverbs 31:25 (She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future). This verse sticks out to me because it demonstrates that with Gods strength I have the ability to go without anxiety when thinking about the days to come and situations in the future.

What accomplishment are you most proud of personally and athletically (name one of each)?

I have had the opportunity to team up with an amazing group of local softball players, which have become some of my closest friends. We have won 4 State championships, and 3 World Series with the Dixie Softball organization. The memories we created over the past 5 years will last with me for a lifetime. Personally, accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior along with being baptized would be the highlight. 

What do you feel sets you apart from your competition and what skills do you currently possess that are your biggest assets?

I believe my speed, ability to anticipate plays, and make make quick decisions under pressure allow me to elevate myself beyond my competition. My best assets would be resilience and mental toughness to always bounce back from mistakes without losing confidence.

What skills are you most focused on improving?

I always look to be better than I was yesterday. I believe focusing on a "growth mindset" will allow me to work on my weaknesses and focus on the process of improvement. Always working to have great effort, attitude, and preparation.

Tell us what a typical day or week is like for you:

I have school 5 days per week, training afterwards with the sport of either (softball, basketball, volleyball, or track). Once per week I train for 2 hours with my speed and agility coach. 3x per week I hit either live pitching or tee work, as well as working on outfield drills to strengthen my skill set. Weekends are designated for travel softball tournaments or team practices.

What are your plans for the future and what is your number one objective for the next year / season?

My intention and goal is to play at the collegiate level in softball. I will be a freshman in high school next year joining some long time travel teammates. I'm extremely excited to contribute my talent to the roster and make a huge impact. This upcoming summer I will be travelling nationally with my Lady Lightning Gold Futures 14U softball team to compete in some of the most challenging tournaments across the country. My objective is to focus on my skill set of slapping and aggressive base running to elevate my teams performance.

What is the biggest challenge you see in achieving your upcoming goal or where could you use help?

I've always been the youngest player on almost every team I've played on, so facing older, stronger, and more mature girls has always been a challenge. I have adapted and competed well in most all cases. It's always nice to have support and reinforced encouragement when facing strong talent.

What words of advice do you have for younger athletes that are up and coming?

Always find love

Who was your favorite player growing up or who's style of play do you most admire?

Jenny Finch was always my favorite player showing amazing resilience in pressure situations. Her ability to stay calm in most all situations was amazing. She is such a passionate player with determination.

What one question would you have for your favorite athlete if they were sitting here now?

I would always ask for their best advice for a young player. For me, how do you not lose the love of the game over the years. Stress, commitment, and time sacrifice can always weigh on young players over the years.