Co-Captain Ava Davey ’25 leads the Girls Soccer team by fostering a family-like sense of community. Her presence on the team is felt through both her skills as a player and her leadership as a Co-Captain. Her consistent work ethic and her warmth allow her to connect with each player while also serving as a role model.
Davey shared her appreciation for both old friendships and memories she has made since starting soccer in second grade, and new ones that she has formed as a part of Girls Soccer. She also highlighted how enjoyable the competitive aspect of the team is, pushing each player to work their hardest.
“I first started playing soccer in second grade. I feel like everyone in their childhood years goes through that soccer phase, but I’m really glad that I stuck with it up until my high school years because I’ve made so many friends and memories along the way. Additionally, I really like the competitiveness of soccer. Especially with the league we’re in, every game is so competitive, and that’s what I love about GVS, we always put up a fight in every game that we play. It’s such a tight-knit group of girls that strive towards achieving goals and winning games. I really love the friendships I’ve made, and I’ve made such a great family with Girls Soccer,” said Davey.
Murathime Daisley ’26 highlighted how Davey leads by example, modeling what it is to be a good player. Daisley described the effects of Davey’s willingness to try things and make mistakes, pushing others to take more risks.
“Ava contributes in many ways, but the main way that she contributes is by showing through her actions what it means to be a great teammate and player. She’s someone who just doesn’t lead by the words that she says, but also by the person that she is. She’s also very willing to show her mistakes and her shortcomings. It makes everyone else feel comfortable to make mistakes and to try out new things. This has helped us improve a lot as a team, especially having a lot of younger players that are looking up to her as well,” said Daisley.
Wylie Roosien ’26 highlighted Davey’s consistency and ability to connect with her teammates. She also noted the team’s commitment to making Davey’s Senior year a standout season.
“Ava is the most positive and encouraging leader I’ve ever played under. She’s so consistent, every practice, every game. She’s always there, encouraging us and just truly connecting with us. That’s the best thing she does, and everyone on the team would say she’s their best friend because she’s so personable and that translates on the field as well, because she’s able to just connect with everyone when we’re playing on the sidelines or on the field. That gets us all going because we want to play for her, especially with this being her Senior year,” said Roosien.
Daisley also emphasized Davey’s work ethic, commenting on her focus during practice and games. She admires her Co-Captain’s mental strength and ability to play under pressure, especially because Davey’s position of center-back often leaves her as the last defender.
“Ava’s probably one of the most hardworking people on the team because she consistently shows up and gives her best. She’s always locked in, and I hardly see her joking around. She’s one of the most mentally tough people on the team. Being center-back puts a lot of weight on your shoulders as well as being a Captain. In the position, you are the last defender, and so oftentimes they don’t blame the goalie, they blame you. Even if something doesn’t go her way or if she doesn’t do what she feels is her best, she does a good job of staying locked in and finishing out the whole game,” said Daisley.
As Davey reflects on her career at Andover, she is thankful for the community the team has given her. She has high hopes for the rest of the season, aiming to lead her team in a way that allows each athlete to tighten up skills and improve overall.
“I’m so proud of the team, and it has provided such a great community for me during my time at Andover. As we get further into the season, I really want to hone in on the little things and strengthen our overall skills, both individually and team-wide. I hope I can lead the team in a way that is conducive to that. Ultimately, I can’t wait to see how the rest of the year plays out and what we can accomplish,” said Davey.
