When Ainsley Wilson first joined Burlington Central’s volleyball team as a freshman, she possessed undeniable raw skills. Yet, confidence was something she had to develop over time. Now a senior middle hitter with a commitment to Dayton, she reflects on her growth. “I was more timid,” Wilson admits. “I didn’t believe in myself and didn’t have confidence. Now, as a senior, I’ve improved a lot and gained confidence. I’ve really embraced being more vocal.”
The 6-foot-4 Wilson creates challenges for most opposing teams in the middle. Her dominant play has been a driving force for the Rockets this season. Her leadership also positively influences the entire team. In a recent match against Jacobs, she tallied five kills, two blocks, and two aces, helping the Rockets secure a 25-20, 25-17 victory. Her teammate Lani Akenten matched her with five kills and added seven digs for the Rockets, bringing their record to 24-4, 10-2. Kaylie Brown and Makenna Manganiello contributed with four kills and six aces, respectively. For Jacobs, Adele Kron and Rachelle Zieba each managed four kills.
Burlington Central coach Julia Smagacz has closely followed Wilson’s evolution. Smagacz highlights Wilson’s leadership as her standout quality. “The biggest growth I’ve seen is in her leadership,” Smagacz states. “Coming in as a freshman on varsity is intimidating, but now she’s a vocal leader. She leads by example, and her strength on the court is undeniable.”
Wilson always believed she had leadership potential but didn’t feel comfortable expressing it with upperclassmen around. She now embraces this role confidently. “I think I’m a natural leader,” Wilson says. “I’m not afraid to speak up.”
Her responsibilities have increased significantly. She’s now a serving middle, a role she aspired to for several seasons. In her first time serving on the varsity team, she has already become one of the leaders in aces. “I always wanted to serve,” Wilson shares. “I worked a lot on it, and I’m excited to serve.”
During the match against Jacobs, the Rockets secured a first-game win from a 20-20 tie. They gained momentum in the second game, with Wilson executing consecutive kills to widen the lead to 20-12. “We managed a decent block,” Jacobs coach Michael Depa remarks. “She has some hits that go straight down, which is to be expected. We handled her well overall.”
Wilson recognizes similar traits in Akenten, Burlington Central’s star freshman outside hitter, and provides guidance to help her navigate the challenges of being a freshman on a varsity team. “I’m good friends with her,” Wilson says. “I offer support because I know how tough it was in that position.”
With Wilson and Akenten’s strong performances, Burlington Central is experiencing a remarkable season. “Seeing them play together is amazing,” Smagacz comments.
Reporter: Paul Johnson, The Beacon-News