Uniontown Area High School senior Ava Livingood was named the H‑S Athlete of the Week for her standout performances on the Red Raiders’ volleyball team. The middle hitter’s contributions were pivotal in recent wins against Indiana and cross‑town rival Laurel Highlands, underscoring her impact on the program.
Key Match Performances
In a thrilling 3‑2 section match against the Little Indians, Livingood recorded nine kills, two service aces and two blocks, helping Uniontown capture the first two sets 27‑25 and 25‑23. Although the Little Indians rallied to force a fifth set with 25‑21 and 25‑22 wins, the Red Raiders prevailed in the decisive set, 15‑13, before a supportive home crowd at A.J. Everhart Memorial Gymnasium.
Season Reflections
While the team fell short of a Class 5A playoff berth, Livingood expressed satisfaction with the Red Raiders’ 9‑9 record. “We knew it was going to be tough going up in classification from 4A, but once we got a feel for the new teams, we started to earn wins,” she said. “We beat Indiana twice in five sets, who was a playoff team, and avenged an earlier loss to Connellsville. We were in two competitive matches with Kiski Area and Penn‑Trafford. I was very satisfied with our record, and even though I won’t be on the team next year, I look forward to watching them play.”
Coaching Influence
Livingood praised head coach Paulina Nottingham, noting the coach’s intensity and passion. “Coach has been awesome. She is very intense and pushed us hard, but our team responded well to her passion. I got much stronger in the front row,” Livingood explained. She also announced plans to assist Nottingham in coaching the 15‑ and 16‑year‑old club teams this season, continuing her involvement in the sport beyond her senior year.
Rivalry Victory
Laurel Highlands has historically been a tough opponent for Uniontown, but Livingood and her teammates secured two decisive sweeps over the Mustangs this year. “The matches with LH have always been competitive, but it was great to get over the hump this year and beat them twice in decisive fashion,” she said. “It’s always a good match with LH. It is our cross‑town rival, so it’s a great time.”
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Livingood hopes to continue playing volleyball at the collegiate level, targeting a Division III program that will accommodate her academic schedule. She also aims to become a physician’s assistant, planning to major in biology and health sciences.
Ava Livingood’s dedication on the court, leadership off it, and clear vision for the future exemplify the spirit of Uniontown athletics and serve as an inspiration to younger players in the community.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
