Ainsley Wilson arrived at Burlington Central as a freshman equipped with raw talent yet lacking confidence. Now, as a senior middle hitter committed to Dayton, she reflects on the journey to her current dominant status. Wilson candidly admits her hesitance in her early years, stating, “I was more timid. I didn’t really believe in myself. I didn’t really have confidence. Now, since I’m a senior and I’ve gotten a lot better, I’ve gained a lot of confidence. I’ve really taken that role of being more vocal as a senior.”
Standing at 6-foot-4, Wilson poses a significant challenge to opposing teams in the middle. Her commanding performance this season has not only propelled the Rockets but has also positively influenced team dynamics. On Thursday night, Wilson delivered a strong performance against Jacobs, contributing five kills, two blocks, and two aces, leading Burlington Central to a 25-20, 25-17 victory in the Fox Valley Conference. Her teammates also made notable contributions, with Lani Akenten adding five kills and seven digs, Kaylie Brown scoring four kills, and Makenna Manganiello serving six aces.
Coach Julia Smagacz recognizes Wilson’s evolution, emphasizing her leadership qualities. Smagacz says, “The biggest thing I’ve seen with her in her growth is her leadership. Obviously, you come in as a freshman playing on varsity, it can be intimidating. Looking at where she is now, she’s one of the most vocal leaders. She’s leading by example too, obviously.” Wilson admits she always had the potential for leadership but refrained from asserting herself due to the presence of upperclassmen.
Wilson now embraces her role as a senior, stating, “I think I’m a natural leader. I speak loud and I’m not afraid to speak up and say what needs to happen.” Her increase in responsibilities includes her desired role as the serving middle for the Rockets, where she ranks among the team leaders in aces.
During the match, the Rockets rallied from a 20-20 tie to win the first game and surged ahead in the second, with Wilson securing a decisive lead with consecutive kills. Jacobs coach Michael Depa acknowledges her abilities, saying, “We got a decent block up. She has her ones that go straight down. That’s going to happen. For the most part, I thought we did a nice job against her. We’ve been working on getting those blocks up better. She can hit it right over it, too.”
Wilson sees a reflection of her younger self in Akenten, Burlington Central’s promising freshman outside hitter, offering guidance as Akenten navigates her development. Wilson shares, “I’m good friends with her. I always tell her as much as I can because I know when I was in that position it’s hard. I just try to help her as much as I can. I’m really excited for her.”
With Wilson and Akenten, the Rockets are experiencing an exceptional season, playing with synergy that Coach Smagacz admires, saying, “You see them play together and it’s crazy.”
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