Berryhill’s Ava Slagle
Berryhill High School sophomore Ava Slagle is a power forward for the varsity basketball team. Slagle started playing basketball when she was in the first grade. Slagle said she loves being around her teammates and representing her school while competing on the court.
“What I love most about my teammates is when one of us gets in our head, and lets the mental stuff win, someone is always there to quickly help us out. We’re going to be stronger this season because we’ve been mentally preparing as well as physically preparing for this season,” Slagle said. “And it’s never a dull moment with them. Someone is always making everyone laugh. Starting with Coach Tate, we can depend on her to keep us entertained. But when it’s time to do work, she’s leading us then too.”
When Slagle started playing volleyball in the seventh grade and she said the mental approach you need in volleyball has helped her in basketball.
“It’s such a mental sport that I’ve been able to use that for basketball too. It’s made me a better player,” said Slagle.
“ ”While representing BHS, Slagle said she has made many great memories and is looking forward to making more.
“My favorite memory as a Berryhill basketball player was last season when we won districts and dousing Coach Tate with water in the locker room,” Slagle said. “BHS is a great place for me as a student-athlete because the whole school is going through a new phase of school spirit. From athletes to student leadership and community members, everyone is showing up like never before and supporting all BHS Sports.”
Slagle said the team is coming together nicely and several teammates have impressed her in early practices.
“I’m not surprised at all by this, but Leighton “Bug” Inhofe has come in as a freshman and taken on a hard and heavy role to be a team leader. Bug is a fun player to watch and I’m excited to play with her this year,” said Slagle.
When her playing days at BHS come to an end, Slagle said she hopes to move on to the college level and pursue a degree while playing the sport she loves. “My goal after high school is to play at the collegiate level. I’m interested pursuing a degree in psychology or athletic education. Or maybe combining those two and be a sport psychologist.”
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