Ava Calle from Mother McAuley has become accustomed to the remarks about her height. The 5-foot-2 junior libero has long been told she’s too short for volleyball. Yet, she consistently proves skeptics wrong. Despite advice that she couldn’t play college volleyball, especially Division I, she committed to Youngstown State before the season.
Calle explains her mindset: ‘I hear it all the time—I’m too short. I just play over it. I don’t really care about height. It’s second nature to hear that stuff at this point. Sometimes I try to prove people wrong, but mainly, I play for my team without worrying about others’ opinions. Outside validation doesn’t matter.’
Her performance on defense continues to shine for the Mighty Macs. Calle achieved eight digs during a 25-21, 25-18 victory over St. Laurence in Burbank. Her teammate Keira McQuillan, a UConn recruit, scored 11 kills, while Jayce Prohaska added 10. Peyton Heatherly, headed to Coastal Carolina, produced 27 assists. From the Vikings, Aubrey Martinez and Abby Ambrose recorded nine kills each. Unfortunately, senior libero Leah Romano left the match due to a leg injury.
‘Ava is definitely a strong force for us,’ said McAuley coach Jen DeJarld. ‘She’s one of the strongest defenders in the state, I believe. She’s little and she’s quick.’
DeJarld noted Calle’s aggressiveness and control on the court. ‘She takes control with her leadership,’ DeJarld added. ‘She’s one of our best passers and an all-around standout.’
Calle’s determination is mirrored in Mother McAuley’s success. After a loss to Benet in September, the team won ten straight matches. This includes defeating their Class 4A champion rival Marist and victories over Assumption, ranked third nationally.
Calle appreciates her team, stating, ‘This team has awesome people. Everyone plays for each other and is not self-centered. I love the tradition and culture at McAuley. I love everybody around us.’
Hailing from Mount Greenwood, her volleyball journey started thanks to her mother, Erin Calle, who played at Queen of Peace. ‘My mother put me in a lesson, and I loved volleyball from there.’ Though she tried basketball and gymnastics in grade school, volleyball became her focus.
The libero position, often overlooked, is where Calle excels. ‘I like to get points for my team. If I can give a perfect pass, I know my hitters will nail the ball. Consistently doing this leads my team to victory.’
Jeff Vorva of the Daily Southtown reports on this inspiring athlete’s journey.
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