Ava Tellier has been named The Holyoke Herald Athlete of the 2023 Fall Season. Ava was named Captain during her senior year as a defender on the Holyoke High Field Hockey Team. She has been playing field hockey since elementary school, and grew up around the sport. She states that her senior season was one to remember, especially because she scored her first goal ever in high school as a defender. Additionally, Ava made All Western Mass for the second consecutive season in a row! She was mentioned in All League Selections this season as well.
As Captain, Ava was highly inspirational and was always so positive for getting the team hyped up and prepared for games. She was consistently there to talk to and would provide great advice. As Ava finishes off the season, she remembers some of her favorite memories throughout her high school career. “My favorite memory from the season was when Sam and Izzy came to practice dressed as Gru and a Minion for one of the Friday themed practices.” Ava stated. Friday practices are always so fun, whether it was Adam Sandler Day, Halloween Day, Minion Day, Country vs Country Club, Anything But a Stick Day, Anything But a Water Bottle, and many more memorable practices. Moments like these contributed to boosting morale and team spirit.
Ava expressed how it is going to be difficult to leave her team behind in the near future. She strongly encourages anyone to give the sport a try because you might end up enjoying it. “This field hockey team had a lot of newer people this year, they worked hard and improved so much which was amazing to see.” Ava says, “Our team is very close knit and a family. We all supported each other through every up and down in games and practices.” Welcoming and mentoring new teammates is extremely important to building a tight knit and effective team, which is exactly what Ava did this season.
Some of Ava’s teammates were asked about their biggest takeaways and the impact Ava will leave as she heads off to college. “Ava is a very hard worker and she always makes sure everyone is on track. Ava is the core of the defense that held us together.” said Marialis Camacho, a Junior defender for the team. “Ava is the most consistent player I’ve ever seen. She was a very important member of the team and a joy to play with.” said Gracie Chesmore, a Junior forward for the team. “Ava got me through every game. She is so respectful, dependable, and I love her.” said Lyara Rodriguez, a Junior goalie for the team. Her initiative both on and off the field has aided in the teams success.
Ava Tellier exemplifies what it means to be a leader, demonstrating kindness, drive, and passion to her younger teammates. Having someone to look up to is extremely important to your experience on a team and this shows on the field. Ava Tellier demonstrated this season not only what it means to be an outstanding player, but a role model as well, making her Holyoke High’s Athlete of the Season.
