Trinity Catholic Stars Huggins and Avery Commit to SEC Volleyball Powerhouses!

Ocala, Florida, USA - In a remarkable display of talent and dedication, Trinity Catholic volleyball stars Lyla Huggins and Addyson Avery are gearing up for their futures in collegiate athletics. Both players recently concluded their high school careers with impressive performances at the Adidas Nationals, finishing in the top five, though they weren’t entirely satisfied with their results. With their eyes set firmly on the next chapter, Huggins is headed to the University of Florida, while Avery has signed on with Mississippi State.

Ocala.com reports that Huggins made a crucial decision when she committed to the Gators on June 15, precisely at 12:05 a.m. This date marked the first opportunity for colleges to reach out to rising juniors, and Huggins, a consistent participant at Gators camps over the years, had caught the attention of the coaching staff with her stellar performance at an elite camp. Her decision, described as a lifelong dream, came after a thoughtful discussion with her family and prayer.

Meanwhile, Avery found herself in high demand, receiving over 30 offers on the same day. She ultimately opted for Mississippi State, inspired by the experience of former teammate McKenna Yates, who currently plays there. Avery noted that Coach Julie Darty Dennis provided vital insights into the campus culture, team chemistry, and training regimens, helping her feel confident in her choice.

Preparing for the Future

Both Huggins and Avery are not just thinking about their new teams; they are committed to making the most of their final seasons at Trinity Catholic and with their club team, Ocala Power United. The excitement builds as both players prepare to compete against one another at the collegiate level for the first time, something neither has experienced before in their athletic journeys.

Their success is pivotal for Trinity Catholic’s volleyball program. Head coach Jeff Reavis anticipates seven future college players emerging from the current roster, ensuring the team maintains its status as a competitive force in the FHSAA’s 2A classification. He emphasized the importance of national rankings and the team’s commitment to excellence each year.

The Big Picture

As women’s volleyball continues to gain traction in the U.S., with over 470,000 high school players participating, less than 6% go on to play at the collegiate level, and only 1.2% make it to Division 1. This makes the achievements of Huggins and Avery all the more significant in the grand scheme of things. Resources like Athlete Pipeline inform aspiring volleyball players about the complexities of the recruiting process, emphasizing the need for strategic preparation and communication with college coaches.

Former Division I athlete and Florida-based coach, Sophia, has dedicated herself to helping athletes navigate this tricky terrain. With over 15 years of coaching experience, she understands that the desire to play transcends conferences and divisions, and she is firmly committed to creating opportunities for young players eager to pursue their dreams.

High-profile club tournaments, such as National Qualifiers, play a critical role in exposure for young athletes. Coaches often look to evaluate players from as early as ninth grade, making it essential for them to build their profiles through excellent play and effective communication with programs they aspire to join. As Huggins and Avery step into the spotlight, their journeys remind us of the dedication and hard work required to succeed in sports.