Avery McDonald has built her high school career at Van Buren on a foundation of resilience, leadership, and family-driven motivation. A senior multi-sport athlete competing in both basketball and volleyball, McDonald has embraced her role as a leader while overcoming adversity and helping elevate her program to new heights.

“My family is my biggest motivator. My parents have always been my biggest accountability partners in making sure I’m consistently putting my best foot forward. Me and my siblings have always been so competitive, while also being each other’s biggest fans.”

That competitive environment at home has shaped McDonald into the athlete she is today. Watching her siblings pursue their own goals has provided a blueprint for success and a constant source of inspiration.

“My brother has been one of my biggest role models because I’ve gotten to see him put in the hard work to play college basketball and where that has gotten him. My sister is also one of my role models because I have also seen her push herself through nursing school and build a life for herself early.”

McDonald’s senior season was filled with memorable moments, but one stood above the rest. Alongside her teammates, she helped Van Buren accomplish something the program hadn’t done in a decade, while also etching their names into the record books.

“One of the biggest highlights for me this past season was beating Greenwood for the first time in 10 years. Also being able to play with the girls I got to this year and break multiple school records is something I will cherish.”

As a two-year team captain, McDonald has taken pride in representing her school and leading by example. Her connection to the program and community runs deep, making every game an opportunity to give back.

“It means the world to play knowing that my coach has put trust in me to lead his team as a captain the past two years. To be able to go out and support Van Buren in the way that our girls team has is truly an honor.”

Her journey hasn’t come without challenges. After missing an entire year due to injury, McDonald returned with a renewed perspective and appreciation for the game, using that experience as fuel to keep pushing forward.

“Knowing how far I have already come with facing an injury that sat me out of sports for a year is definitely something that motivates me. I am blessed to have the ability to still play so why wouldn’t I put my best foot forward.”

Behind the scenes, McDonald credits her coach for playing a major role in her development, both as a player and as a leader. Countless hours in the gym and a commitment to growth have helped shape her into one of the program’s key contributors.

“My coach has played a giant role in the player I am today. He has spent countless hours in the gym with me putting me through workouts and creating highlight films. I am forever thankful for all that he has done for me.”

Through it all, her family has remained a constant source of strength, helping her navigate both the highs and lows of her athletic journey.

“My family has been my biggest supporters. They always help me make hard decisions and hold me to a high standard. Even when times would get hard my family would always come alongside me and get me through.”

As McDonald prepares to close out her high school career, her impact on Van Buren athletics is undeniable, defined not just by wins and records, but by leadership, perseverance, and the relationships she’s built along the way.