Junior Ava McDonald Verbally Commits to Univ. of Delaware

A three-sport varsity athlete for the Blue Devils, Huntington High School junior Ava McDonald has given the University of Delaware a verbal commitment to play for the school’s NCAA Division I women’s lacrosse team.

“I chose Delaware because it felt like a place where I truly belonged,” Ms. McDonald said. “The people, the environment, and the sense of community all stood out to me. The academics are strong, and the lacrosse program is committed to excellence while building a culture of teamwork and support. What really drew me in was knowing I could grow both on and off the field, surrounded by coaches and teammates who push each other to be their best while still caring about the person behind the player.”

The teenager is a born leader. Ms. McDonald has been integral to Huntington’s soccer, basketball and lacrosse teams, playing key roles on all three squads. She is a three-sport captain.

“At Delaware, I plan on studying education with a focus in social studies and minoring in sports management,” Ms. McDonald said. “My teachers and coaches in Huntington have had such a lasting influence on me; not just through what they taught, but through the way they challenged me, believed in me, and shaped how I see myself. They’ve shown me what it means to lead with purpose and to bring out the best in others. That’s the kind of impact I hope to make for future students and athletes, which is why I want education and sports to always be part of my future.”

Last winter, Ms. McDonald was one of the players who helped lift the Huntington girls’ basketball team to the Suffolk Final Four playoff round. In the spring, she played an important part in the Blue Devil lacrosse team’s county and Long Island titles.

“My experience in Huntington is something I’ll hold onto for the rest of my life,” Ms. McDonald said. “This town has given me so much more than just a place to grow up. It’s given me a family. Between my teachers, teammates, coaches, and friends, I’ve always felt supported in everything I do, both in the classroom and on the field. Playing sports here and representing Huntington has been such a privilege, and the pride that comes with wearing the blue and white is something I’ll never forget. This community has shaped who I am as both a person and an athlete, and I’ll always carry that with me wherever I go.”

The junior had a list of suitors she considered before choosing Delaware. There were numerous considerations that went into Ms. McDonald’s ultimate decision. But before she graduates, she has more to accomplish with the Blue Devils.

“Before I graduate, my biggest goal is to leave a lasting impact on Huntington athletics,” Ms. McDonald said. “I want future Blue Devil athletes to truly understand what it means to be part of this program; not just the games we play or the stats we earn, but the heart, pride, and dedication that comes with being a Blue Devil. I hope to set an example of giving everything every day, on and off the field, and to show why being part of this family is so special. Huntington athletics has taught me so much about teamwork, resilience, and pushing myself beyond what I thought possible, and I want to pass that on to those who come after me. I want to leave a legacy of hard work, passion, and commitment so that future Blue Devils feel inspired to embrace the same pride, love, and responsibility that comes with wearing these colors.”