Russellville High School senior Avery Watts became the newest member of the Golden Tigers to sign to play the sport at the next level at a gala held on February 21st.
At the signing ceremony, Watts made plans to play volleyball as an official for the University of Mississippi Women's Owls. In addition to being a standout volleyball player at RHS, Watts also excels academically, particularly playing basketball at RHS and being a member of the track team. Her cumulative weighted GPA is 5.0 and she has taken 6 AP courses. Watts is also the recipient of the Bryant Jordan Award for RHS, Regional and Regional Affairs, and she will be heading to Birmingham for the state dinner.
“It's really special because I've been waiting for this day for a long time,” Watts said of signing day. “I've been dreaming of this day playing college volleyball, so I'm very excited that it's finally happening.”
Watts made many memories while playing at RHS, but she shared one of her favorites. She said, “The friendships and memories I've made are very special to me and I'll never forget. Mainly just playing with all my friends and giving it all on the court.”
MUW is co-educational and an NCAA Division III member located in Columbus. “When I went there, everyone was so kind and helpful, so I felt very at home,” Watts said. “It's two hours away from home for him, so it was important to me to make the campus feel like home.”
First-year RHS volleyball head coach Will White had a lot to say about Watts. That includes the example she set for others through the program, her ability to move into the key outside hitter position during her senior season, and her role as a player. Team leader. “Avery is something we'll be talking about for years,” White said. “Her work ethic, her attitude, and she's a wonderful young woman with a very bright, academic mind. My only regret is not having her for four years.”
