Mother McAuley’s Ava Calle has often been told she’s too short for volleyball. Despite this, she’s repeatedly proven critics wrong. The 5-foot-2 junior libero was even advised she wouldn’t make it in college volleyball, particularly Division I. Her response was a commitment to Youngstown State before the season began, making a clear statement about her abilities.
“I hear it all the time — I’m too short,” Calle stated. “I just play over it. I don’t care about height. It’s second nature to hear that stuff at this point.” She emphasizes her focus is on playing for her team, ignoring outside opinions and validation. Calle delivered an impressive defensive performance with eight digs during the 25-21, 25-18 GCAC Red win over St. Laurence in Burbank.
Other notable performances from Calle’s teammates include UConn recruit Keira McQuillan, who achieved 11 kills for McAuley, currently boasting a 26-3, 5-1 record. Jayce Prohaska added ten kills, while Coastal Carolina-bound setter Peyton Heatherly contributed 27 assists. For the Vikings, Aubrey Martinez and Abby Ambrose each recorded nine kills. Senior libero Leah Romano suffered a leg injury early in the second game and did not return.
Despite her stature, Calle compensates with toughness. McAuley coach Jen DeJarld noted, “Ava is definitely a strong force for us. She’s one of the strongest defenders in the state. She’s little and quick.” DeJarld admires Calle’s fearless play, adding, “She scurries in on short balls and throws her body relentlessly.”
Calle affirmed her aggressive approach: “I tell myself, ‘Just go,’’’ explaining that she doesn’t overthink her actions. Her past experiences in club volleyball include running over chairs, showcasing her commitment.
DeJarld observed a boost in Calle’s confidence from her sophomore year, marking her increased leadership and communication: “She has taken control of our back row.” McAuley’s success streak includes ten consecutive wins after their September 22 loss to Benet, including victories against two-time defending Class 4A champion Marist and Assumption from Louisville.
Calle, who hails from Mount Greenwood, attributes her start in volleyball to her mother. Erin Calle played at Queen of Peace, a school adjacent to St. Laurence. “She just put me in a lesson and I loved it,” Ava recalled.
Her sports journey also involved basketball and gymnastics in grade school, though she chose to focus solely on volleyball. “Volleyball is such a big part of my life,” Calle expressed. “My life would be so different without it.”
Even though the libero’s role often goes unnoticed, Calle cherishes it. “I like to get points for my team,” she explained. Noting the importance of her contribution, she added, “If I can give a perfect pass, I know my hitters will kill the ball. Consistent execution can lead my team to victory.”